Air Injection Cannula

Description

Air Injection Cannula

This air injection cannula is a fine tube for placing air into the eye through a small entry. You choose between 27 gauge and 30 gauge. Both fit a syringe and give fine control over a small bubble.

Typical uses for air

Surgeons inject air to reform the anterior chamber, to press a graft or flap into place, or to check a wound for leaks. A fine cannula makes the entry small. So the bubble stays where you place it and the wound seals well. Also, a small bubble is easier to judge under the microscope than a large one.

27 gauge or 30 gauge

The 27 gauge size has a slightly wider bore, so air or fluid moves with less effort. In contrast, 30 gauge is finer and leaves a smaller entry. Choose 27 for general use and 30 for very small ports. At a glance:

• Sizes: 27.0 gauge and 30.0 gauge
• Fine tip for small entries
• Syringe hub
• Works with air or balanced salt solution

Placing the bubble

Fill a syringe with filtered air and clear any fluid first. Then enter the port with the tip just inside. Inject in small puffs, because a large bubble forms quickly. Finally, withdraw slowly to keep the bubble from escaping.

Care for fine gauges

Fine bores clog easily. Therefore, flush with water right after use and then with a mild cleaner. Dry the lumen with air and check the flow before packing. Both gauges come unsterilized, and both handle many autoclave runs after proper cleaning.

Buying the fine air cannula

Both gauges have the same promise: three years against manufacturing defects from delivery. The stainless meets ASTM F899. For more choices, browse our ophthalmology instruments. A curved alternative is the Sauter air cannula. See our FAQs for order questions.

Professional use only. Read our care notes and shipping info.