cannula

Introduction

A tube that can be inserted into a cavity or lumen, i.e. cannulation of a vein for intravenous access.

In some instances a trocar may be inserted into the lumen of the cannula in order to:

• provide a sharp tip for penetrating the cavity
  • thoracentesis
  • paracentesis
• ensure that tissue is not drawn into the cannula prior to removal of the trochar
  • lumbar puncture for CSF analysis

More general terms

• device (medical device)

More specific terms

• arteriovenous cannula
• nasal cannula