Importance

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Abstract

A paracorporeal respiratory assist lung is configured with an annular cylindrical hollow fiber membrane (fiber bundle) that is rotated at rapidly varying speeds. Fluid (for example, blood) is introduced to the center of the device and is passed radially through the fiber bundle. The bundle is rotated at rapidly changing velocities with a rotational actuator (for example, a motor or magnetic coupling). The rotation of the fiber bundle provides centrifugal kinetic energy to the fluid giving the device pumping capabilities and may create Taylor vortexes to increase mass transfer. Rotation of the fiber bundle increases the relative velocity between the fluid and the hollow fibers and increases the mass transfer. The porosity of the fiber bundle may be varied to enhance gas exchange with the blood. Alternatively, a rotating core may be used with a stationary fiber bundle.

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First Claim