Preclinical Evaluation of a New Hollow Fiber Silicone Membrane Oxygenator for Pediatric Cardiopulmonary Bypass: Ex-vivo Study

Based on the results of many experimental models, a hollow fiber silicone membrane oxygenator applicable for long-term extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) was developed. For further high performance and antithrombogenicity, this preclinical model was modified, and a new improved oxygenator was successfully developed. In addition to ECMO application, the superior biocompatibility of silicone must be advantageous for pediatric cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). An ex vivo short-term durability test for pediatric CPB was performed using a healthy miniature calf for six hours. Venous blood was drained from the left jugular vein of a calf, passed through the oxygenator and infused into the left carotid artery using a Gyro C1E3 centrifugal pump. For six hours, the O 2 and CO2 gas transfer rates were maintained around 90 and 80 ml/min at a blood flow rate of 2 L/min and V/ Q=3, respectively. The plasma free hemoglobin was maintained around 5 mg/dl. These data suggest that this newly improved oxygenator has superior efficiency, less blood trauma, and may be suitable for not only long-term ECMO but also pediatric CPB usage. (Ann Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2002; 8: 7‐11)