Which type of cannula is typically used for venous drainage during cardiopulmonary bypass?

The venous cannula is specifically designed for venous drainage during cardiopulmonary bypass, which is an essential part of this procedure. This type of cannula is typically placed in a large vein, such as the superior or inferior vena cava, to efficiently remove deoxygenated blood from the systemic circulation and direct it to the heart-lung machine.

Venous cannulas come in various sizes to accommodate different patient needs and anatomical variations, ensuring optimal drainage. They are designed with features that facilitate smooth blood flow, minimize trauma to the vessel, and reduce the risk of complications such as clot formation or hemolysis.

While other types of cannulas, such as arterial or central cannulas, serve important roles in the context of perfusion, they do not fulfill the specific function of draining venous blood. Arterial cannulas are used to return oxygenated blood back to the patient and help monitor blood pressure, while peripheral and central cannulas may be utilized for IV access or other purposes. Therefore, the venous cannula is the key instrument for venous drainage in the context of cardiopulmonary bypass.