vacuum aspiration /vak″yo̅o̅·əm/ [L, vacuus, empty, aspirare, to breathe upon] , a method of removing tissues from the uterus by suction for diagnostic purposes or to remove elements of conception. With the patient under local or light general anesthesia, the cervix is dilated, and the uterus is emptied with suction. Postoperative care includes the close observation of vital signs for symptoms of blood loss. Also called suction curettage. Compare dilation and curettage. See also elective abortion, therapeutic abortion.
