Fluid Management Overview

Background
Infusion-based arthroscopy pumps control pressure in the joint by increasing or decreasing the rate that fluid enters the joint. When a suction instrument is used in the joint, fluid, tissue and debris are removed from the joint at very high suction outflow rates. This can lead to joint collapse and cause the pump to increase its flow rate to compensate for the rapidly egressing fluid. If the Surgeon is able to reduce the suction outflow rate to a more manageable level, joint collapse can be avoided and fluid use can be significantly reduced.

High Infusion Rates Can Lead to:
OR Inefficiencies

• Time added to procedures
• High disposable costs: Fluid bags, Suction Canisters, Towel Laundry
• Extremely wet OR environment

Procedural Complications

• Soft tissue extravasation

Many Surgeons regulate this outflow rate by manipulating the valve on the shaver handpiece or the outflow tubing itself. This can be an onerous task that adds time to procedures. A number of solutions have been developed to address this problem with the use of automatic outflow control.