Improved fluid management by a simple extracorporeal circuit design change.

Extracorporeal circulation (ECC) circuits vary in design in order to fulfill the needs and perfusion plans of the surgical team. There are as many variations in these configurations as there are perfusion techniques. This article describes a simple circuit modification that has diverse advantages in its application. The implementation of this modification may improve sterile technique, lower prime volume, sequester blood, and add versatility in fluid management.