| abstract |
The invention provides an apparatus and method to allow for the drainage of blood from the site of the wound into a blood collection device. The blood collection device is held at a vacuum as is retained within a vacuum storage chamber which is in turn conjoined to a further primary vacuum reservoir by a valve. The valve serves to control and regulate the vacuum levels between the primary vacuum reservoir and secondary chamber in which the blood collection device is contained. Following drainage of blood into the blood collection device, the flexible walls of the blood collection device allow for the optional re-transfusion of blood back into the patient from whom it was drained. |