摘要 |
An autotransfusion apparatus for collecting salvaged blood includes an upper chamber for collecting blood and a lower chamber for receiving blood from the upper chamber. The upper chamber is subjected to a vacuum to withdraw blood from a patient. Particles and lipids are removed from the collected blood by a particle filter and a lipid separator. A selector valve located between the vacuum port and the lower chamber, and between the lower chamber and a vent, selectively couples lower chamber either to the vacuum source or the vent. The lower chamber receives blood from the upper chamber through a pressure-operated drain valve only when the lower chamber is coupled to the vacuum source. Coupling the lower chamber to the vent while the upper chamber is subjected to the vacuum source causes a pressure differential between the chambers, closing the pressure-operated drain valve. This allows the upper chamber to remain under a vacuum and continuously collect blood while the lower chamber drains blood into a blood bag. |