Abstract: An apparatus for de-airing the heart comprises a clear, resilient bulb fixedly secured to an aspirating needle. The bulb includes a valve which permits air, upon squeezing the bulb, to be discharged therefrom. The aspirating needle includes an axial passage which is closed at the distal end of the needle. One or more longitudinal slots formed in the wall of the needle provide access to the axial passage of the needle for aspirating air from the heart.