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O R T H O P E D I C S
cuffs simultaneously, which helps with bilateral and IVRA (Bier block)
procedures. Each cuff channel should have independent indicators for
cuff pressure and inflation time, and independent controls for cuff
inflation and deflation. The controls, indicators and cuff connecting
tubing should be color-coded to identify the cuff connected to each
channel. Some systems include interlocks, which help prevent inadvertent cuff deflation during IVRA procedures.
Single-channel instruments, which are generally smaller and less
costly, control the pressure in only 1 cuff. You can use 2 single-channel instruments together for bilateral and IVRA procedures, but again,
you should never use adaptors to connect 2 or more cuffs to a tourniquet instrument intended for single-channel operation. OSM
Dr. McEwen (jamcewen1@gmail.com) is the inventor of the automatic
tourniquet system. His website, www.tourniq uets.org, focuses on the safe
and effective use of tourniquet systems.
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O U T PAT I E N T S U R G E R Y M A G A Z I N E O N L I N E | N O V E M B E R 2013
