Integrated pipeline for minimally invasive extracorporeal circulation: A basic experimental study

ObjectiveThis study aims to evaluate the operational feasibility of a self-designed minimally invasive extracorporeal circulation integrated circuit (miECC) type IV system and to assess the effectiveness of the venous gas filter and automatic exhaust mechanism.MethodsA blood recycler was utilized in place of a heart to connect the arteriovenous line, venous gas filter, centrifugal pump head, and integrated membrane-lung connection, thereby establishing a loop circulation model for the miECC IV system. The venous gas filter was linked to a negative pressure suction device positioned at its top. During operation, gas was introduced from the venous end to determine the maximum gas storage capacity of the venous gas filter, the gas removal efficiency of the negative pressure suction device, the conversion capabilities between open and closed operations, and the adequacy of the pipeline design.ResultsThe minimally invasive extracorporeal circulation integrated pipeline demonstrated stable operational performance and successfully facilitated the transition between closed and open states. The venous gas filter exhibited a gas storage capacity of less than 80 mL across various flow rates. Experimental results indicated that at flow rates of 3.0-4.5 L/min, the automatic venting device effectively removed gas when the volume did not exceed 80 mL. At flow rates of 5.0-5.5 L/min, the device also successfully vented gas under the same conditions.ConclusionThe self-designed minimally invasive extracorporeal circulation integrated pipeline operates effectively and can transition between closed and open configurations. The gas filter effectively prevents venous gas accumulation. At the same time, the enhanced automatic gas-exhausting device, utilizing negative pressure, efficiently removes gas from the venous filter, thereby improving the safety of the closed-circulation operation.