BIOLOGICAL FLUID FLOW CONTROL APPARATUS AND METHOD

摘要

Apparatus, system and method are provided for controlling flow through a biological fluid processing device. Pressure of fluid flow through a flow path is monitored and flow rate in the flow path is increased or decreased based on sensed pressure levels for selected periods of time. This has particular application in controlling flow in an infusion or return flow path of an apheresis device that separates whole blood into one or more blood components.

主权项

1. A method for controlling flow through a biological fluid processing device fluid flow path, comprising:
flowing fluid through the fluid flow path at a flow rate; monitoring the pressure of fluid flowing in the fluid flow path relative to at least a first pressure level and a second pressure level; decreasing the fluid flow rate in the fluid flow path by a second selected amount if the monitored pressure is above the second pressure level for a second amount of time, the second pressure level being below a maximum allowed pressure level and at or above the first pressure level; and increasing the flow rate of fluid in the fluid flow path by a first selected amount if the monitored pressure is below the first pressure level for at least a first amount of time.