JP2016105826A - Blood processing unit with circumferential blood flow - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a blood processing unit for use in a blood perfusion system.SOLUTION: A blood processing apparatus 200 includes a housing 202, a first end cap 204, and a second end cap 206. The blood processing apparatus 200 includes a blood inlet 208 and a blood outlet 210. The blood processing apparatus 200 includes a core 216, a heat exchanger element disposed around the core 216, a cylindrical shell 220 disposed around the heat exchanger element, and a gas exchanger element disposed around the cylindrical shell 220. The heat exchanger element and the gas exchanger element include multiple hollow fibers respectively. A blood flow passing through the heat exchanger element is both of a circumferential direction and a radial direction, while the blood flow passing through the gas exchanger element is a circumferential direction.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

Cross-reference of related applications
[0001] This application claims priority from European Patent Application EP 10191140.2 filed on November 15, 2010, based on US Patent Act 119, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. This application is related to US patent application Ser. No. 12 / 860,062, filed Aug. 20, 2010, entitled “Blood Processing Unit with Modified Flow Path,” which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. To do.

  [0002] The present disclosure relates generally to blood processing units used in blood perfusion systems.

  Blood perfusion involves promoting blood through the body's blood vessels. For such purposes, blood perfusion systems typically involve the use of one or more pumps in an extracorporeal circuit that is interconnected to the patient's vasculature. Cardiopulmonary bypass surgery usually requires a perfusion system that temporarily stops the heart in order to create a still operating field by replacing the heart and lung functions. This isolation allows surgical reduction of vascular stenosis, valvular disease and congenital heart defects. In perfusion systems used in cardiopulmonary bypass surgery, an extracorporeal blood circuit is formed that includes at least one pump and oxygen delivery device that replaces heart and lung function.

  [0003] More specifically, in cardiopulmonary bypass, oxygen-deficient blood, ie venous blood, is drained by gravity from the vena cava that enters the heart or another vein in the body (eg, the femoral vein) or Inhaled by vacuum and transported through a venous line in the extracorporeal circuit. Venous blood is pumped to an oxygen supply for sending oxygen to the blood. Oxygen can be introduced into the blood by being transported across the membrane, or less frequently used, but can be introduced by stirring the oxygen through the blood. At the same time, carbon dioxide is removed through the membrane. Oxygenated blood is filtered and returned through the arterial line to the aorta, femoral artery, or another artery.

  One object of the present invention is to provide a blood processing unit for use in a blood perfusion system.

[0004] Example 1 is a blood processing apparatus that includes a housing having a blood inlet and a blood outlet, the blood inlet extending to the interior of the housing. A core is disposed concentrically within the housing, the core having a core interior that is in fluid communication with the blood inlet, and the core is formed in the outer surface and the longitudinal axis of the core. And an elongate core aperture extending generally parallel to the elongate core aperture, the elongate core aperture being configured to allow blood to exit from within the core. Heat exchange hollow fibers are disposed around the core, heat exchange fluid can flow through the heat exchange hollow fibers, and blood through the elongated core aperture can flow across the heat exchange hollow fibers. A cylindrical shell is disposed concentrically around the heat exchange hollow fiber, and the cylindrical shell includes an elongated shell aperture configured to allow blood to exit the cylindrical shell. A gas exchange hollow fiber is disposed around the inner cylindrical shell, gas can flow through the gas exchange hollow fiber, and blood from the elongated shell aperture is blood across the gas heat exchange hollow fiber. Can flow towards the exit. The shell aperture is positioned at a position that is substantially radially opposite to the position of the core aperture so that the blood flow across the heat exchange hollow fibers is substantially circumferential.

[0005] Example 2 is the blood processing apparatus of Example 1, wherein the cylindrical shell further includes a plurality of lobes configured to add a radial flow component to the blood.
[0006] Example 3 is the blood treatment device of any of Examples 1-2, further comprising an elongated recovery space disposed between the gas exchange hollow fiber and the housing, the recovery space at the blood outlet It is in fluid communication and diametrically opposite the elongated shell aperture.

  [0007] Example 4 is the blood treatment device of any of Examples 1-3, wherein the shell aperture is positioned radially near the end of the cylindrical shell opposite the blood inlet location. With the apertures disposed, blood exiting the radially disposed apertures flows longitudinally over the gas exchange hollow fibers.

  [0008] Example 5 is the blood treatment apparatus of any of Examples 1-4, wherein the housing is configured to collect blood passing over the gas exchange hollow fiber and direct the blood to the blood outlet. An annular space is defined.

  [0009] Example 6 is the blood treatment apparatus of any of Examples 1-5, wherein the core is disposed within the outer surface such that the core is disposed generally parallel to each other and in close proximity to each other. Blood that includes an aperture and exits from a first core aperture of the pair of elongated core apertures flows in a first circumferential direction, and blood that exits from a second core aperture of the pair of elongated core apertures It flows in a second circumferential direction generally opposite the circumferential direction.

  [0010] Example 7 is the blood treatment device of any of Examples 1-6, wherein the outer surface of the core is configured to add a radial component to the blood flow around the heat exchanger core. A plurality of core ribs extending in the direction are provided.

  [0011] Example 8 is the blood treatment apparatus of any of Examples 1-7, wherein the cylindrical shell has an inner surface and is further configured to add a radial component to the blood flow around the core. A plurality of longitudinally extending shell ribs on the inner surface of the cylindrical shell.

  [0012] Example 9 is the blood treatment apparatus of any of Examples 1-8, wherein the outer surface of the heat exchanger core is configured to provide a space between the heat exchanger core and the heat exchange hollow fiber. And a plurality of transverse ribs.

  [0013] Example 10 is the blood treatment apparatus of any of Examples 1-9, wherein the cylindrical shell comprises an elongated shell aperture disposed radially opposite to the pair of elongated core apertures.

[0014] Example 11 is a blood processing apparatus that includes an outer housing having a blood inlet and a blood outlet. A heat exchanger core is disposed within the housing and has a core interior in fluid communication with the blood inlet, the heat exchanger core having an outer surface and an elongated channel formed through the outer surface. Including, blood can exit from the interior of the core, generally in the form of a circumferential flow. A heat exchange hollow fiber is disposed around the heat exchanger core, heat exchange fluid can flow through the heat exchange hollow fiber, and blood exiting the core aperture can flow across the heat exchange hollow fiber. A cylindrical shell is disposed concentrically around the heat exchange hollow fiber, the cylindrical shell including an elongated channel formed in the inner surface of the shell, and further generally opposite the location of the elongated channel In a circumferential position, including a radially disposed shell aperture disposed near the opposite end of the blood outlet, the elongated channel and the chanel aperture are in fluid communication and pass over the heat exchange hollow fiber Blood can flow into the elongated channel and out of the cylindrical shell through the shell aperture. A gas exchange hollow fiber is disposed around the cylindrical shell, and gas can flow through the gas exchange hollow fiber, and blood from the cylindrical shell traverses the gas exchange hollow fiber in a longitudinal flow path. Can flow toward the blood outlet.

[0015] Example 12 is the blood processing apparatus of Example 11, wherein the inner surface of the cylindrical shell further includes a plurality of lobes configured to add a radial flow component to the blood.
[0016] Example 13 is the blood treatment apparatus of Example 11 or 12, wherein the heat exchanger core is disposed within the outer surface in parallel to each other and in close proximity to each other. Blood from a first core aperture of the pair of elongate core apertures flows in a first circumferential direction, and blood exiting from the second core aperture of the pair of elongate core apertures includes a first It flows in a second circumferential direction generally opposite the circumferential direction.

  [0017] Example 14 is the blood treatment device of any of Examples 11-13, wherein the outer surface of the core is configured to add a radial component to the blood flow around the heat exchanger core. A plurality of core ribs extending in the direction are provided.

  [0018] Example 15 is the blood treatment device of any of Examples 11-14, wherein the cylindrical shell has an inner surface and is further configured to add a radial component to the blood flow around the core. A plurality of longitudinally extending shell ribs on the inner surface of the cylindrical shell.

  [0019] While multiple embodiments are disclosed, still further embodiments of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which shows and describes illustrative embodiments of the invention. Accordingly, the drawings and detailed description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not as restrictive.

[0020] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a blood processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. [0021] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a blood processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. [0022] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view illustrating one embodiment of a blood treatment apparatus according to one embodiment of the invention. [0023] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view illustrating one embodiment of a blood treatment apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention. [0024] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view illustrating one embodiment of a blood treatment apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention. [0025] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view illustrating one embodiment of a blood treatment apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention. [0026] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view illustrating one embodiment of a blood treatment apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention. [0027] FIG. 2 is a partial cross-sectional perspective view illustrating one embodiment of a blood treatment apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention. [0028] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view illustrating one embodiment of a blood treatment apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention. [0029] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a portion of the blood treatment apparatus of FIG. It is a perspective view which shows a part of blood processing apparatus of FIG.

  [0030] The present disclosure relates to a blood treatment apparatus that includes one or more of a heat exchanger and a gas exchanger (commonly referred to as an oxygenator), according to various exemplary embodiments. In some embodiments, the term oxygen supplier may be used to refer to a monolithic structure that incorporates a heat exchanger and a gas exchanger into a single device. In various embodiments, for example, heat exchangers and gas exchangers are arranged in a concentric form such that one component is located inside another component. According to another embodiment, the heat exchanger and the gas exchanger are separate structures that are structurally operably connected to each other. In some embodiments, an oxygenator can be used in the extracorporeal blood circuit. An extracorporeal blood circuit, such as can be used in bypass surgery, can include a number of different elements, such as heart-lung machines, blood reservoirs, and oxygenators.

  [0031] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a blood treatment device or oxygenator 10. Although the internal components are not visible in this view, the oxygenator 10 can include one or more of a heat exchanger and a gas exchanger. In some embodiments, the heat exchanger and gas exchanger are incorporated into a single structure that forms an oxygenator housing. The oxygen supply device 10 includes a housing 12, a first end cap 14 fixed to the housing 12, and a second end cap 16 fixed to the housing 12. In some embodiments, the housing 12 can include other structures that allow the housing 12 to be attached to another device. Although the housing 12 is shown in a generally cylindrical shape, in some embodiments, the housing 12 can have a triangular, rectangular, or another parallelogram cross-sectional shape. The heat exchanger and gas exchanger may each have a generally similar cross-sectional shape, or each may have a different cross-sectional shape. In some embodiments, the heat exchanger may be internal to the gas exchanger, and in other embodiments, the gas exchanger may be located within the heat exchanger. In some embodiments, the heat exchanger and gas exchanger may be concentric.

  In some embodiments, the blood inlet 18 extends into the housing 12 and the blood outlet 20 exits the housing 12. As described, in some embodiments, blood processing apparatus 10 can include a gas exchanger, in which case it can include a gas inlet 22 and a gas outlet 24. In some embodiments, blood processing apparatus 10 includes a heat exchanger, in which case it includes a heat exchange fluid inlet 26 and a heat exchange fluid outlet 28 behind (in the direction shown) the heated fluid inlet 26. be able to. In some embodiments, the heat exchange fluid inlet 26 may be located at one end of the housing 12 and the heat exchange fluid outlet 28 may be located at the opposite end of the housing 12. In some embodiments, the blood processing apparatus 10 can include one or more purge ports 30 that can be used to purge air bubbles from within the blood processing apparatus 10.

  [0033] These locations of the inlet, outlet and purge ports are merely exemplary, and other arrangements and configurations are contemplated. The purge port can include a valve or a threaded cap. The purge port operates to allow gas (eg, air bubbles) exiting the blood to be withdrawn or aspirated and removed from the blood processing apparatus 10.

  [0034] FIGS. 2-5 are views of the blood treatment device 50, where the blood flow through the heat exchanger is circumferential, and the blood flow through the gas exchanger is also circumferential. 2 and 3 are cross-sectional views showing how blood flows through the blood treatment device 50, and FIGS. 4 and 5 show how the heat exchange fluid and heat exchange gas respectively flow through the blood treatment device 50. Shows how it flows through.

[0035] As seen in FIGS. 2 and 3, the blood processing apparatus 50 includes a blood inlet 52 and a blood outlet 54. Blood inlet 52 is fluidly coupled to heat exchanger core 56 and blood entering blood inlet 52 flows into heat exchanger core 56. In some embodiments, as shown, the heat exchanger core 56 has an elongated core aperture 58 (e.g., that allows blood to flow out of the heat exchanger core 56 and through the heat exchanger portion 62) (e.g. , Slots or channels extending at least partially along the longitudinal axis of the heat exchanger core 56). In some embodiments, the elongated core aperture 58 allows blood to exit the core 56 generally radially, so that the blood passes through the heat exchanger portion 62 as shown in FIG. It can flow in the circumferential direction. According to some embodiments, the elongated core aperture extends longitudinally along substantially the entire effective length of the heat exchanger core 56. According to another embodiment, the elongated core aperture 58 is replaced with a series of short apertures. The core aperture 58 can extend around the circumference of the heat exchanger core 56 (in other words, along the outer circumference) in the range of about 1 degree to about 15 degrees. In one exemplary embodiment, the core aperture 58 extends about 5 degrees around the circumference.

  [0036] As shown, the blood processing apparatus 50 includes an inner cylindrical shell 64 that delineates (in other words, distinguishes) the heat exchanger portion 62 from the gas exchanger portion 66. In some embodiments, the cylindrical shell 64 includes an elongated shell aperture 68 that allows blood to flow into the gas exchanger portion 66. In some embodiments, the elongated shell aperture 68 allows blood to flow circumferentially through the gas exchanger portion 66 as shown in FIG. The elongated shell aperture 68 may be disposed within the cylindrical shell 64 at a position that is substantially radially opposite to the position of the core aperture 58. As blood flows through the gas exchanger portion 66, it can be collected in an elongated collection space 70 formed in the housing 12 before exiting the blood processing apparatus 10 via the blood outlet 54. According to another embodiment, the elongated shell aperture 68 is replaced with a series of short apertures.

  [0037] In some embodiments, circumferential blood flow through the heat exchanger portion 62 and the gas exchanger portion 66 can be affected by the relative position of internal structures within the blood processing device 50. . In some embodiments, as shown, the elongate shell aperture 68 is on the radially opposite side of the elongate core aperture 58 (eg, spaced radially about 180 degrees apart). Blood exits the elongated core aperture 58 and flows circumferentially through the heat exchanger portion 62 toward the elongated shell aperture 68. In some embodiments, the elongate collection space 70 is radially opposite to the elongate shell aperture 68 (and thus aligned with the elongate core aperture 58 in the radial direction). The blood exits the elongated shell aperture 68, flows circumferentially through the gas exchanger portion 66 toward the elongated collection space 70, and then exits the blood processing device 50 via the blood outlet 54.

  [0038] In some embodiments, the heat exchanger portion 62 includes a plurality of hollow fibers, and a heated fluid (eg, water) can flow through the hollow fibers. Blood can flow around the hollow fibers through the hollow fibers and can therefore be appropriately heated (or cooled). In some embodiments, the hollow fiber may be a polymer. In some examples, metal fibers may be used. According to another embodiment, the heat exchanger portion 62 can instead include a metal bellows or another structure (eg, fins) having a large surface area to facilitate heat transfer with blood. In some embodiments, the hollow fibers may be formed of polyurethane, polyester or any suitable other polymer or plastic material. According to various embodiments, the hollow fibers have an outer diameter from about 0.2 millimeters to about 1.0 millimeters, more specifically from about 0.25 millimeters to about 0.5 millimeters. The hollow fibers may be woven to provide a mat that may range in width from, for example, about 80 millimeters to about 200 millimeters. In some embodiments, the mat is arranged and configured to have a cross configuration.

[0039] In some embodiments, the gas exchanger portion 66 can include a number of microporous hollow fibers, and a gas, such as oxygen, can flow through these microporous hollow fibers. Blood can flow around the hollow fibers through the hollow fibers. Due to the concentration gradient, oxygen can diffuse into the blood through the microporous hollow fibers, while carbon dioxide can diffuse into the hollow fibers and exit the blood. In some embodiments, the hollow fibers may be made of polypropylene, polyester or any other suitable polymer or plastic material. According to various embodiments, the hollow fibers have an outer diameter of about 0.38 millimeters. According to another embodiment, the microporous hollow fibers have a diameter from about 0.2 millimeters to about 1.0 millimeters, more specifically from about 0.25 millimeters to about 0.5 millimeters. The hollow fibers may be woven to provide a mat that may range in width from, for example, about 80 millimeters to about 200 millimeters. In some embodiments, the mat is a cross configuration.

  [0040] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, blood processing apparatus 50 includes additional structural features. The blood processing apparatus 50 includes a housing 72, a first end cap 74, and a second end cap 76. In some embodiments, the first end cap 74 can include a gas inlet 78 and the second end cap 76 can include a gas outlet 80. In some embodiments, the second end cap 76 may include a heat exchange fluid inlet 82 and a heat exchange fluid outlet 84 (see FIG. 4). In some embodiments, the housing 50 can include a purge port 83.

  [0041] As shown in FIG. 4, a heat exchange fluid (such as heated or cooled water, saline, or another suitable fluid) enters through the heat exchange fluid inlet 82 and heat exchanger portion 62. It passes through the inner heat exchanger hollow fiber and exits the blood treatment device 50 via the heat exchange fluid outlet 84. In some embodiments, as shown, the heat exchange fluid flows through the hollow fibers and the blood passes over and around the hollow fibers. In some embodiments, heated fluid is used to maintain and / or increase the temperature of blood before it is returned to the patient or otherwise provided to the patient. In some embodiments, a cooled fluid is used, for example, when it is desired to cool the patient's body.

  [0042] As shown in FIG. 5, a gas (eg, oxygen gas) enters through the gas inlet 78, passes through the microporous hollow fiber in the gas exchanger portion 66, and passes through the gas outlet 80 for blood processing. Exit device 50. In some embodiments, the pressure or flow rate of oxygen through the blood treatment device 50 can be varied, for example, to achieve a desired diffusivity of carbon dioxide diffusing out of the blood or oxygen diffusing into the blood. . In some embodiments, as shown, oxygen flows through the hollow fibers while blood flows around and over the hollow fibers.

  [0043] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of blood processing apparatus 100, with the blood flow through the heat exchange portion being circumferential and the blood flow through the gas exchanger portion being longitudinal. As shown in FIG. 6, blood processing apparatus 100 includes a housing 102, a first end cap 104, and a second end cap 106. Blood processing apparatus 100 includes a blood inlet 108 and a blood outlet 110. The gas inlet 112 allows oxygen to be provided to the gas heat exchanger portion, and the gas outlet 114 allows gas to exit the blood processing apparatus 100.

  [0044] Blood processing apparatus 100 includes a heat exchanger core 116, a heat exchanger element 118 disposed around heat exchanger core 116, and a cylindrical shell 120 disposed around heat exchanger element 118. Gas exchanger element 122, all of which are located within the outer shell or housing 102. The heat exchanger element 118 and the gas exchanger element 122 can each include a number of hollow fibers discussed in connection with the blood processing apparatus 50. In some embodiments, the housing 102 includes an annular portion 124 that is in fluid communication with the blood outlet 110.

[0045] In use, blood enters the blood processing apparatus 100 via the blood inlet 108 and passes into the heat exchanger core 116. The blood fills the heat exchanger core 116 and the elongated core aperture 1
Exits through 26 and enters heat exchanger element 118. In some embodiments, the heat exchanger core 116 includes a single elongated core aperture 126, but in other embodiments, the heat exchanger core 116 may include more than one elongated core aperture 126. In some embodiments, the elongated aperture 126 allows blood to flow circumferentially through the heat exchanger element 118 or so guides blood.

  [0046] As shown in FIG. 6, according to some embodiments, the cylindrical shell 120 includes an elongated collector or channel 127. The channel 127 may be disposed at a position that is substantially radially opposite to the position of the elongated core aperture 126. Positioning channel 127 substantially opposite the location of core aperture 126 allows blood to flow in heat exchanger element 118 in a generally circumferential flow pattern. The channel 127 can extend around the circumference of the cylindrical shell 120 in the range of about 1 to about 15 degrees. In one exemplary embodiment, channel 127 extends about 5 degrees around the circumference.

  [0047] After passing through the heat exchanger element 118, the blood is collected in the channel 127 and flows into the annular shell aperture 128. The shell aperture 128 extends, in various embodiments, around all or most of the circumference of the cylindrical shell 120, so that blood can flow around all or most of the circumference of the shell 120. Exit from the inner cylindrical shell 120. In some embodiments, the radially disposed shell aperture 128 can be located near the end of the blood treatment device 100 opposite the blood outlet 110 so that the blood is exchanged with the gas exchanger element. It is possible to flow longitudinally through 122. The blood is then collected in the annular portion 124 and then exits the blood processing apparatus 100 via the blood outlet 110.

  [0048] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of blood processing apparatus 150, where blood flow through the heat exchanger portion is longitudinal and blood flow through the gas exchanger portion is either radial or circumferential. . Blood processing apparatus 150 includes a housing 152, a first end cap 154, and a second end cap 156. Blood processing apparatus 150 includes a blood inlet 158 and a blood outlet 160. The gas inlet 162 allows oxygen to be provided to the gas exchanger portion and the gas outlet 164 allows gas to exit the blood processing device 150.

  [0049] Blood processing apparatus 150 includes a heat exchanger core 170, a heat exchanger element 172 disposed around the heat exchanger core 170, and a cylindrical shell 174 disposed around the heat exchanger element 172. And a gas exchanger element 176 disposed around the cylindrical shell 174. The heat exchanger element 172 and the gas exchanger element 176 may each include a number of hollow fibers as discussed above in connection with the blood processing device 50.

  [0050] In use, blood enters through the blood inlet 158, partially passes through the heat exchanger core 170, and then exits through the core aperture 177. The blood flows through the core aperture 177 and enters the heat exchanger element 172. In some embodiments, the heat exchanger core 170 includes a single core aperture 177, but in other embodiments, the heat exchanger 170 can include more than one core aperture 177. The core aperture 177 can extend partially or entirely around the circumference of the heat exchanger core 170. Blood enters heat exchanger element 172 at a first end near blood inlet 158. The blood then flows longitudinally through the heat exchanger element 172 and exits through a radially arranged shell aperture 178 in the cylindrical shell 174. In some embodiments, the radially disposed shell aperture 178 is located at a second end opposite the first end, thereby allowing blood to pass through the heat exchanger element 172. It flows in the longitudinal direction.

[0051] After passing through the heat exchanger element 172, the blood exits the inner cylindrical shell 174 via the radially arranged shell aperture 178 and between the cylindrical shell 174 and the gas exchanger element 176. Enters a long and narrow collector 180 (in other words, a recovery unit). In some embodiments, the collector 180 is formed in a cylindrical shell 174. In some embodiments, the elongated collector 180 is configured to allow blood exiting the elongated collector 180 and blood entering the gas exchanger element 176 to flow circumferentially. For example, the elongated collector 180 can include one elongated channel or can include one or more apertures disposed longitudinally along the gas exchanger element 176. In these embodiments, blood flows out through the heat exchanger element along a generally cylindrical flow path since the blood flow exits at one circumferential location. According to another embodiment, the elongated collector 180 includes a plurality of channels or apertures disposed at various locations around the circumference of the elongated collector, in which case blood passes through the gas exchanger element 176. Generally flows in the radial direction. Blood exiting the gas exchanger element 176 passes through the tapered portion 182 that guides the blood through the blood outlet 160.

  [0052] FIGS. 8-10 show various views of the blood treatment apparatus 200, wherein blood flow through the heat exchanger portion is both circumferential and radial, and blood flow through the gas exchanger portion is circumferential. Direction. As shown, blood processing apparatus 200 includes a housing 202, a first end cap 204, and a second end cap 206. Blood processing apparatus 200 includes a blood inlet 208 and a blood outlet 210. The blood processing apparatus 200 includes a core 216, a heat exchanger element 218 disposed around the core 216, a cylindrical shell 220 disposed around the heat exchanger element 218, and a cylindrical shell 220. Gas exchanger element 222. The heat exchanger element 218 and the gas exchanger element 222 can each include a number of hollow fibers as discussed above in connection with the blood processing device 50.

  [0053] In use, blood enters through the blood inlet 208 and passes through the core 216. Blood fills the core 216 and exits through a series of core apertures 226. As shown in FIG. 8, these apertures are arranged to form a first elongate row and a second elongate row, each row being generally parallel to each other and in close proximity to the other row. In another embodiment, the core 216 includes a first elongate channel and a second elongate channel, each channel being generally parallel and in close proximity to the other channel. In some embodiments, the elongated core aperture 226 allows blood to flow circumferentially through the heat exchanger element 218. In the illustrated embodiment, the core aperture 226 is configured as follows: blood exiting the core 216 flows through each of the first row or channel and the second row or channel, and the first row or channel. Blood exiting from is diverted or guided in a first circumferential direction, and blood exiting from a second row or channel is diverted or guided in a second circumferential direction. Thus, in this configuration, blood flow exits the core and flows circumferentially through the heat exchanger element 218, with some blood flowing in one direction and some blood flowing in the opposite direction.

[0054] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a cylindrical shell 220 in accordance with various exemplary embodiments. As shown, the cylindrical shell 220 includes an inner surface 230. In some embodiments, as shown, one or more elongated shell ribs or lobes 232 may be disposed on the inner surface 230 that pass through these one or more shell ribs or lobes 232. It may be configured such that at least a portion of the flowing blood is a modified circumferential flow that includes a radial flow component. According to various embodiments, the inner surface 230 of the cylindrical shell 220 can have two to eight separate lobes 232, and in one embodiment, the inner surface 230 has four lobes 232. In various embodiments, the lobe 232 is formed by adding additional material to the inner surface, and the inner diameter of the cylindrical shell 220 where one lobe meets another lobe is about 5 percent to about 20 percent. Reduced. In another embodiment, the lobes 232 are formed by removing material from the inner surface 230 or by a combination of adding material and removing material.

  [0055] In use, as described above, when blood flows circumferentially through the heat exchanger element 218, the blood contacts the lobe 232, thereby adding a radial flow component to the blood. In other words, blood flows through the heat exchanger element 218 such that the overall flow configuration includes both a circumferential flow component and a radial flow component. The arrows shown in the heat exchanger element 218 of FIG. 9 show the blood flow pattern generated by the lobe 232 in accordance with this exemplary embodiment.

  [0056] According to various embodiments, the core 216 includes an external channel 217. As shown in FIG. 9, the core 216 includes four channels 217. In various embodiments, these channels are configured to further promote the radial flow component of blood. In various embodiments, the channel 217 is disposed at a location on the periphery of the core 216 that is configured to cooperate with a lobe 232 formed in the inner surface of the cylindrical shell 220. For example, the channel 217 and the lobe 232 may be offset from each other in the circumferential direction so that blood is diverted radially inward by the lobe 232 and continues to flow in the circumferential direction at the same time. The course is changed to the outside. This configuration in this case may continue around the entire circumference of the core 216. In this way, a combined flow pattern of the radial and circumferential directions of the blood in the heat exchanger element 218 can be promoted.

  [0057] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the heat exchanger core 216. FIG. The heat exchanger core 216 has an outer surface 234. In some embodiments, as shown, one or more elongate core ribs 236 can be disposed on the inner surface 234, which can be used for blood flowing through these one or more elongate core ribs 236. It can be configured to have a circumferential flow that is at least partially modified (eg, has both a circumferential flow component and a radial flow component). In some embodiments, the outer surface 234 can include a plurality of transverse ribs 238. In some embodiments, the radially arranged ribs 238 extend radially outward from the core 216 to create a space between the heat exchanger core 216 and the hollow fibers that wrap around the core 216. This space facilitates blood flow around the fibers, thereby improving heat transfer and reducing the pressure drop within the heat exchanger. According to some embodiments, the ribs are disposed along substantially the entire effective length of the heat exchanger core 216. These ribs may be disposed generally transverse to the longitudinal axis of the core 216.

  [0058] After passing through the heat exchanger element 218, the blood exits the cylindrical shell 220 via the elongated shell aperture 228. In some embodiments, the elongated shell aperture 228 may be radially opposite from the elongated core aperture 226, thereby allowing blood to flow circumferentially. Blood enters the gas exchanger element 222 and passes circumferentially toward the blood outlet 210.

  [0059] Various modifications and additions may be made to the exemplary embodiments discussed without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, while the embodiments described above exhibit certain features, the scope of the invention also includes embodiments having various combinations of features and embodiments that do not include all of the features described above.

Claims (15)

A blood processing apparatus,
A housing having a blood inlet and a blood outlet, wherein the blood inlet extends to the interior of the housing;
A core disposed concentrically within the housing, the core having a core interior in fluid communication with the blood inlet, wherein the core is formed within the outer surface and the outer surface. An elongated core aperture extending generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the core, the elongated core aperture being configured to allow blood to escape from within the core; and
A heat exchange hollow fiber disposed around the core, wherein heat exchange fluid can flow through the heat exchange hollow fiber, and blood passing through the elongated core aperture traverses the heat exchange hollow fiber. Heat exchange hollow fibers that can flow,
A cylindrical shell concentrically disposed about the heat exchange hollow fiber, the cylindrical shell including an elongated shell aperture configured to allow blood to exit the cylindrical shell; A cylindrical shell;
A gas exchange hollow fiber disposed around the inner cylindrical shell, wherein gas can flow through the gas exchange hollow fiber, and blood passing through the elongated shell aperture allows the gas exchange hollow A gas exchange hollow fiber capable of flowing across the fiber towards the blood outlet,
The blood treatment, wherein the shell aperture is disposed at a position that is substantially radially opposite to the position of the core aperture such that the blood flow across the heat exchange hollow fiber is substantially circumferential. apparatus.   The blood processing apparatus of claim 1, wherein the cylindrical shell further includes a plurality of lobes configured to add a radial flow component to the blood.   And further comprising an elongate collection space disposed between the gas exchange hollow fiber and the housing, the collection space being in fluid communication with the blood outlet and diametrically opposite the elongate shell aperture. Item 3. The blood processing apparatus according to Item 2.   The shell aperture includes a radially disposed aperture disposed near an end of the cylindrical shell opposite the blood inlet location, and blood exiting the radially disposed aperture The blood processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the blood processing apparatus flows in a longitudinal direction on the gas exchange hollow fiber.   The blood processing apparatus of claim 1, wherein the housing defines an annular space configured to collect blood passing over the gas exchange hollow fiber and direct the blood to the blood outlet.   The core includes a pair of elongated core apertures disposed generally parallel to each other and in close proximity to each other in the outer surface, and blood exiting from a first core aperture of the pair of elongated core apertures The blood flowing in a first circumferential direction and exiting from a second core aperture of the pair of elongated core apertures flows in a second circumferential direction generally opposite to the first circumferential direction. 2. The blood processing apparatus according to 1.   The blood treatment of claim 6, wherein the outer surface of the core comprises a plurality of longitudinally extending core ribs configured to add a radial component to the blood flow around the heat exchanger core. apparatus.   The cylindrical shell has an inner surface, and further has a plurality of longitudinally extending shell ribs on the inner surface of the cylindrical shell, the shell ribs being radial to blood flow around the core. 8. The blood processing apparatus of claim 7, configured to add an ingredient.   The blood treatment of claim 7, wherein the outer surface of the heat exchanger core further comprises a plurality of transverse ribs configured to provide a space between the heat exchanger core and the heat exchange hollow fiber. apparatus.   The blood processing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the cylindrical shell includes an elongated shell aperture disposed radially opposite to the pair of elongated core apertures. A blood processing apparatus,
An outer housing having a blood inlet and a blood outlet;
A heat exchanger core disposed within the housing and having a core interior in fluid communication with the blood inlet, wherein the heat exchanger core is formed to pass through an outer surface and the outer surface. A heat exchanger core, wherein blood can exit from within the core in the form of a generally circumferential flow;
A heat exchange hollow fiber disposed around the heat exchanger core, wherein heat exchange fluid can flow through the heat exchange hollow fiber, and blood exiting the core aperture traverses the heat exchange hollow fiber. Heat exchange hollow fibers that can flow and
A cylindrical shell concentrically disposed about the heat exchange hollow fiber, the cylindrical shell including an elongated channel formed in an inner surface of the shell, further at the location of the elongated channel A radially disposed shell aperture disposed at a circumferential position generally opposite to the opposite end of the blood outlet, wherein the elongated channel and the shell aperture are in fluid communication. A cylindrical shell in which blood passing over the heat exchange hollow fibers flows into the elongated channel and out of the cylindrical shell through the shell aperture;
A gas exchange hollow fiber disposed around the cylindrical shell, wherein gas can flow through the gas exchange hollow fiber, and blood from the cylindrical shell is in the longitudinal flow path the gas A blood processing apparatus comprising a gas exchange hollow fiber capable of flowing across the exchange hollow fiber toward the blood outlet.   The blood processing apparatus of claim 11, wherein the inner surface of the cylindrical shell further includes a plurality of lobes configured to add a radial component to the blood.   The heat exchanger core includes a pair of elongated core apertures disposed in the outer surface generally parallel to each other and in close proximity to each other, the first core of the pair of elongated core apertures Blood exiting from the aperture flows in a first circumferential direction, and blood exiting from the second core aperture of the pair of elongated core apertures in a second circumferential direction generally opposite the first circumferential direction The blood processing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein   The blood treatment of claim 11, wherein the outer surface of the core comprises a plurality of longitudinally extending core ribs configured to add a radial component to the blood flow around the heat exchanger core. apparatus.   The cylindrical shell has an inner surface, and further has a plurality of longitudinally extending shell ribs on the inner surface of the cylindrical shell, the shell ribs being radial to blood flow around the core. The blood processing apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the blood processing apparatus is configured to add an ingredient.

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