Laerdal Compact Suction Unit 4, 300 ml

Laerdal Compact Suction Unit 4 is one of the few battery-powered suction units that delivers an adjustable vacuum level of up to –80 kPa (600 mmHg) and supports both oropharyngeal and tracheal suction — designed for pre-hospital environments where mains power is unavailable.

• Adjustable vacuum level: 0 to –80 kPa (0–600 mmHg) — adapted to the type of suction and the individual's age
• 300 ml collection canister with overflow protection — prevents fluid from reaching the suction pump
• Battery operation: up to 45 minutes of continuous suction on one charge
• 1 kg, IP44 rated, supplied with a 12V vehicle charger and 230V mains adapter
• Compatible with standard suction catheters (Yankauer, tracheal catheters, nasal tubes)

Adjustable vacuum levels are essential for safe suction. Oropharyngeal suction of vomit or blood requires a higher vacuum (–60 to –80 kPa) to clear the airway quickly before ventilation or intubation. Tracheal suction through an endotracheal tube or tracheostomy opening requires a lower vacuum (–10 to –15 kPa) to avoid mucosal injury. Children and infants are always suctioned at a lower vacuum than adults — LCSU 4's continuously variable vacuum control allows the clinician to adjust it precisely for the situation without changing units.

The overflow protection is a mechanical valve that stops suction if the fluid level reaches 300 ml. This prevents blood or vomit from being drawn into the suction pump and damaging the mechanism — a common problem with cheaper suction units that lack protection. The unit is started and stopped with a simple on/off button, and the vacuum level is adjusted using a rotary control on the front while suction is in progress. The 45-minute battery life is sufficient for several responses, and both 12V and 230V chargers are included for charging in a vehicle or at a station.

Why choose LCSU 4 rather than a manual V-VAC?

The main differences from manual suction units such as V-VAC or Res-Q-Vac are efficiency and vacuum control. Manual units require continuous hand force to maintain suction and rarely exceed –40 kPa, which limits their ability to clear thick secretions or vomit containing food particles. LCSU 4 delivers a constant vacuum of up to –80 kPa without physical effort, freeing the hands for other interventions. Compared with mains-powered suction units such as Medela Clario, LCSU 4 is built for emergency vehicles and rescue services — it is impact resistant, IP44 rated against splashing water, and works without mains power. The battery can be charged in the vehicle while travelling.

According to L-ABCDE, a clear airway (A – Airway) is the first life-saving intervention. A suction unit that cannot clear the airway effectively is useless in that situation — no matter how easy it is to carry. LCSU 4 is supplied in a carrying case with suction tubing, Yankauer catheter and battery charger. The collection canister and suction tubing are replaceable consumables.