MEDAP FUMOVAC 700: Flow, Filter Life and Integration in the OR

MEDAP FUMOVAC 700 key data

The published figures are a flow of 700 l/min, a noise level of 55 dB(A), a weight of 5.0 kg with filter, and dimensions of 150 × 280 × 390 mm (height, width, depth). The manufacturer describes it as half the size and weight of its predecessor, which is why it fits into HF towers or onto ceiling supply unit platforms.

Flow figures should be read as the maximum at the device; the flow at the surgical site depends on hose diameter, length and the nozzle used. Ask the supplier which hose and handpiece the 700 l/min figure refers to, and request the flow at the hose you plan to use.

Four-stage filter and filter life

The four-stage filter has three magnetically covered inlets for 22 mm, 9.5 mm and 6.4 mm tubes, so the same device can serve open surgery with a wide hose and laparoscopy with a narrow one. The filter lifetime is listed as 18, 24 or 35 h, depending on the filter, with up to 35 hours stated in the description.

Filter life is the main running variable. Estimate your annual hours of smoke-producing surgery, divide by the filter life, and you have the number of filters per year to budget; ask the supplier for the filter part numbers and local availability. For the reasons behind filtration, see surgical smoke safety.

Handle the used filter as contaminated waste according to your facility policy, wear gloves when changing it, and record the date and operating hours so that replacement is planned rather than reactive. A clogged filter reduces flow before it fails completely, so a gradual loss of suction at the nozzle is a reason to check it.

• Four-stage filter with three inlets: 22, 9.5 and 6.4 mm
• Filter lifetime 18, 24 or 35 h depending on the filter
• Two-button operation with LED status indicators
• Automatic HF remote switch activator

Use with HF, RF, ultrasound, laser and laparoscopy

The unit is intended for HF, RF, ultrasound and laser surgery as well as laparoscopy. An automatic remote switch activator starts and stops the unit together with the HF pencil, so the surgeon does not need to remember to switch it on and the filter is only used when smoke is produced.

Operation uses just two buttons, with LED indicators for status. Simple controls mean fewer errors in a busy OR and faster training for circulating nurses. Pair the evacuator with a suitable generator: see our overview of smoke evacuation systems for the general principles.

For training, a five-minute demonstration for each OR team is usually enough: where the nozzle goes (close to the site), how the remote activator is connected, what the two buttons do and what the LED status indicators show.

Installing in an HF tower or on a ceiling supply unit

Because of its compact size, the FUMOVAC 700 can sit in an HF tower or on a platform of a ceiling supply unit, keeping the floor clear of devices and cables. At 5.0 kg with filter, it can also be moved between rooms if the OR team needs flexibility.

Plan ventilation around the unit, the position of the exhaust, the hose route and a safe place for the spare filter. An installation plan agreed with biomedical and OR staff avoids hoses crossing walkways. Beckfinity arranges installation for the equipment it supplies.

Comparing smoke evacuators and next steps

Compare units on flow at the hose, filter efficiency with test method, filter life and cost per operating hour, noise, activation method and mounting options. A useful alternative to review is the BOWA SHE SHA, which also uses a four-stage filter with ULPA-15. See the MEDAP FUMOVAC 700 product page for the product overview.

Confirm the registration status of the device in the UAE and any facility requirements. Contact Beckfinity for a quote or consultation on smoke evacuation for your operating rooms.