BLOOD PROCESSING CHAMBER COUNTER-BALANCED WITH BLOOD-FREE LIQUID

摘要

Blood processing systems and methods are disclosed. A processing chamber (14) rotating on a rotating element includes a first compartment (38) and a second compartment (40). Blood is conveyed into the first compartment (38) for centrifugal separation into components. A liquid free of blood occupies the second compartment (40) to counter-balance the first compartment (38) during rotation on the rotating element. In one embodiment, the second compartment (40) is served by a single fluid access. Prior to use, the single access is coupled to tubing, through which a vacuum is drawn to remove air from the second compartment (40). While vacuum exists, communication is opened between the tubing and a source of liquid. The vacuum draws the liquid into the second compartment (40) through the single access, thereby priming the second compartment (40) for use.