The system is used to treat infections in bone and body tissue. The system is inserted into bone or tissue following surgical debridement.

The System consists of:

An administration set with a drip chamber (to which is attached a 50 ml bag of antibiotic solution).

This connects via a 3-way stopcock to a catheter which delivers the antibiotic at the far end of the perforated tube.

The perforated tube is connected via the other two limbs of the Y connection to a bellow.

There is a T-piece along this line which can be used to obtain samples or unblock the tubes. The direction of flow is controlled by pinch clamps on either side of the T-piece.

A bellow provides negative pressure. When the bellow is full, the contents can be drained into the drainage bag.

The non-return valve in the drainage bag, ensures a one-way flow of fluid.

If excessive air accumulates in the drainage bag, it can be safely released without spilling the contents.

When the bag is full, it can be safely discarded without contaminating the environment.

The system was developed and refined by the late Prof. Lautenbach over the past 38 years and provides numerous features and benefits.

The system greatly reduces the risk of cross infection.

MANAGEMENT OF SYSTEM

The possible complications are:

1. Blockage may arise in the wound tube, due to blood clots or other body fluid. These blockages are easily removed by the doctor or nurse responsible for the patient’s care. In such case, a syringe containing saline is used to irrigate the tube and remove the clot or blockage.

2. In rare instances the T-Piece may crack if force is used when a syringe is inserted, or if the cap is replaced forcefully. A cracked T-Piece can be easily replaced by either the doctor, nurse or a company employee trained and authorised to replace it.

3. The Bellow may in rare instances loose vacuum. A faulty Bellow can easily be replaced by either the doctor, nurse or a company employee, trained and authorised to replace it.

4. The Drain Bag may in rare instances leak. A faulty Drain Bag can easily be replaced by either the doctor, nurse or a company employee, trained and authorised to replace it.