METHODS, SYSTEMS, AND KITS FOR THE EXTRACORPOREAL PROCESSING OF BLOOD

摘要

Methods, systems, and kits for extracorporeally circulating and processing blood are described. The systems include a pump, a processing unit, and blood drawn return lines for accessing a patient's vasculature. Blood flow through the return line is measured and pump speed controlled to maintain a desired blood flow rate. Alarm conditions can be initiated when expected pump performance differs from that needed to maintain the control point flow rate. By using an ultrasonic flow detector, gas bubbles in the blood flow can be detected.