A new blood pump and oxygenator system for support of infants with neonatal respiratory distress: preliminary in vitro and in vivo evaluation

A clinical need exists for a blood oxygenator and pumping system for the support of neonates with respiratory deficiencies. Such systems now available for support of adults are not suitable for neonatal patients. In vitro evaluation of a new blood oxygenator and blood pumping system was performed. The data obtained suggested that this system may be applicable to neonates. In vivo studies with rabbits to further analyze the new system were done. Preliminary data from these studies indicate that the new blood oxygenator and blood pump system may be applicable to supporting neonates with respiratory deficiencies. Suggestions for future development of this system are presented.