Vacuum aspirator apparatus

Disposable Karman vacuum aspirator apparatus, for vacuum abortion in first seven weeks of pregnancy, with catheter, by Rocket of London, 1981, trademarked 'Rolon'.

This apparatus was used to create a vacuum in order to perform an induced abortion of a foetus. This technique is known as vacuum aspiration and is used for elective or medical reasons. It is the most common form of abortion in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. The process involves the artificial dilation of the cervix, usually by manual techniques or drugs. This allows access to the uterus. A cannula is then inserted into the uterus which is attached, via tubing, to the aspirator. This acts as a suction pump. A vacuum is created once the syringe rod is pulled. The contents of the uterus are then extracted.