Miniature membrane oxygenator for use in neonatal ECMO.

A new miniature membrane oxygenator (Kuraray KMO, size, 0.3 m2, with a priming volume of 47 ml, compliance of less than 0.1 ml/100 mmHg, and pressure loss of 45 mmHg) with improved gas transfer and mechanical durability was developed and tested. The membrane material is a hollow fiber double layer polyolefin. The testing procedures determined by the AAMI were followed, and the results showed improved O2 and CO2 transfer (70 ml/min and 55 ml/min, respectively). Hemolysis was within acceptable limits, and plasma leakage was undetectable after 7 days of perfusion. Clinical study demonstrated satisfactory performance.