?:definition
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Devices designed to circumferentially constrict/compress an extremity for a limited period of time to control venous and arterial blood flow. The pressure is applied to the extremity upon the limb surface and underlying tissues using the cuff; pressure is then transferred to the blood vessels causing a temporary occlusion. Pneumatic tourniquets are used mainly during surgical procedures to provide a bloodless operative field; mechanical (i.e., non-inflatable) tourniquets are usually intended for use in an emergency to control hemorrhage after serious limb accidents.
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