An improved aortic cannula is formed from a cannula body and a tip provided on the distal end of the cannula body wherein the tip is designed to accommodate the fluid flow requirements of an extracorporeal bypass system while simultaneously minimizing any possible adverse impact of the cannula and fluid flow on the vessel in which the cannula is received. The tip has an axial fluid discharge aperture provided at the distal end thereof through which a portion of the fluid exiting the cannula flows. In addition, at least one lateral fluid discharge aperture is provided in the sidewall of the tip. A scoop or other diverting member is formed in the sidewall to direct a portion of the fluid flowing through the tip to exit the cannula through the lateral fluid discharge apertures.