BANDAGE, ESMARCH, 6 cm x 5 m
Valid Article
BANDAGE, ESMARCH
Definition
Esmarch bandage is a narrow soft rubber bandage that is used to expel venous blood from a limb (exsanguinate) that has had its arterial supply cut off by a tourniquet. The limb is often elevated as the elastic pressure is applied.
The exsanguination is necessary to enable some types of delicate reconstructive surgery where bleeding would obscure the working area. A bloodless area is also required to introduce local anaesthetic agents for a regional nerve block.
Synonym
Esmarch's bandage for surgical haemostasis or Esmarch's tourniquet
Specifications
- Natural rubber
- Dimensions: approx. 6 cm x 5 m x 0.8 mm
- Firm, moderate elasticity
- Autoclavable
- Non sterile, reusable
Instructions for use
Precautions for Use
Take great care if using this item as a tourniquet (close watch on the time etc.).
Maintenance
This bandage is exposed to the operative field and gets frequently soiled. It must be pre-disinfected, cleaned and sterilized by steam autoclave between each patient.
Rubber article: should be properly dried and talcked before prolonged storage in order to increase its shelf life.
(Cf Introduction: Disinfection and sterilization in the field)
MSF requirements
This bandage is used to perform endo-venous anaesthesia and during haemorrhagic surgery on limbs in order to limit bleeding.