Autoaspiration

/ˌɔːtoʊˌæspɪˈreɪʃən/ noun

Definition

A medical process where someone inhales their own stomach contents or other body fluids into the lungs.

Etymology

From 'auto-' (self) and 'aspiration' (breathing in). This is a medical term used in emergency medicine and anesthesiology.

Kelly Says

Autoaspiration is a risk during surgery when patients are unconscious—their own vomit can be pulled into their lungs, which is why doctors place tubes down the windpipe to prevent this dangerous accident.

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