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A cannula (from Latin "little reed"; plural cannulae) is a flexible tube which when inserted into the body is used either to withdraw fluid or insert medication. It can also be used to take blood pressure using the direct method. Cannulae normally come with a trocar (a sharp pointed needle) attached which allows puncturing of the body to get into the intended space. Intravenous cannulae are the most common in hospital use. A variety of cannulae are used to establish cardiopulmonary bypass in cardiac surgery.