MedFriendly®
Medical Yoke
Yoke has several definitions in the field of medicine.
Most broadly, it can refer to any device that binds,
connects, or unites two points. An example would be a
clamp or coupling. It can also refer to a type of device
that assists in grasping, pulling, and holding objects
firmly, particularly in situations when one must be very
careful. These types of yokes are used in science
laboratories and medical settings where bodily fluids or
toxic materials are handled.
This clamp is an example of a
medical yoke.
FEATURED BOOK: Antique Medical Instruments
Another definition of yoke is a device that connects two small cylinders (types of
containers) of medical gases to equipment (e.g., regulators, needle valves) to supply
gases that assist in breathing or anesthesia. These types of yokes are often referred to
as medical gas yokes. An example would be a device that connects two small oxygen
tanks to equipment that assists in breathing.
Yokes are also included on carbon dioxide gas cylinders which are used during
laparoscopic surgeries of the abdomen. In this surgery, the gas inflates the abdomen,
allowing surgery to occur via a small incision. A yoke is also known as a jugum. More
than one jugum is known as juga.
Yoke comes from the Latin word "jungere" meaning "to join."
"Where Medical Information is Easy to Understand"™
