Pump/Oxygenator for Pediatric Cardiopulmonary Support

The objective of this program is the development of an integrated pump/oxygenator for pediatric carsupport. The device employs an axial flow pump to produce secondary flows in a tubular membrane oxygworking pressure. The outflow from the oxygenator is then returned to the patient's circulation by acentrifugal pump which maintains the oxygenator pressure in a preset range regardless of the afterlousable for either venoarterial or venovenous bypass without modification. The automatic control systemploys fuzzy logic, and its operation will be transparent to the user so that comparatively untrainto operate the unit safely. The advantages of this two-stage pump system include a reduction in themade possible by improved gas transfer efficiency compared to conventional oxygenators; the eliminatreservoir and the need for passive siphon blood drainage; and a considerable reduction in the totalin contact with blood. Working prototypes will be constructed, and the membrane gas transfer efficieA determination of the index of hemolysis will also be made by operating the unit in a dosed mock cimeasuring the rate of generation of free plasma hemoglobin. Finally, the unit will be evaluated in vacute studies using 4 kg rabbits placed on venoarterial bypass for a period of 5-6 hours. Gas transfcaused by the device, and circulating platelet levels and platelet function will be examined.