Development of a Membrane Oxygenator for Long-Term ECMO Support Using Fine Silicone Hollow Fiber

Abstract

A membrane oxygenator is an artificial organ that temporarily replaces the gas exchange functions of the lungs during medical procedures such as open-heart surgery or as respiratory support for patients with severe respiratory or cardiopulmonary failure. It can also serve as a bridge to lung transplantation. For long-term use of several months, the oxygenator must have durability and safety. Silicone rubber was focused on for its excellent gas permeability. A membrane oxygenator using fine silicone hollow fiber membranes was developed. This membrane has high permeability and no plasma leakage, making it potentially suitable for long-term lung support. An in vitro experiment with bovine blood evaluated the developed device. With a blood flow rate of 3 L/min, the oxygen transfer rate of the oxygenator with 2 m2 membrane area was about 36% higher, and the carbon dioxide transfer rate about 28% higher, than the 1 m2 membrane area oxygenator. However, the pressure drop increased with larger membrane area. The goal is to develop a silicone hollow fiber membrane oxygenator that can achieve low pressure drop and withstand long-term use.