A simplified neck suction device for activation of carotid baroreceptors.

Application of negative neck pressure is a valuable research technique for activation of carotid baroreceptors in man, but its use has been limited because a simple, effective, comfortable neck suction chamber has not been available. We have developed a new neck suction device which may have significant advantages over earlier models. Construction details are illustrated for this chamber which has the following attributes: (1) it is simple and inexpensive to construct, (2) one model fits most adults in relative comfort, and (3) the design of the chamber permits rapid initiation of neck suction to preselected levels leading to stimulus-related cardiac slowing and arterial hypotension.