[A membrane-thin-layer oxygenator for experimental organ perfusions].

The authors describe device and functioning of a new efficacious membrane thin-layer oxygenator, specially developed for experiments on the isolated hearts of small animals. Compared with customary oxygenators with direct oxygenation, advantages arise from the separation of gas and perfusion solution, and its small volume for filling (7,5 ml). The diffusion capacity of the oxygenator (exchange surface 980 cm2) was tried by means of a hemoglobin-free modified Krebs-Henseleit solution with various flow values at 37 degrees C, depending on the gage of the layer. At the optimal gage of 0,15 mm and a flow value of 15 ml/minute a perfusion solution can be oxygenated from 0 to 570 torr, and an airequilibrated solution up to 646 torr. Measurements of oxygen consumption in the isolated perfused rat heart proved that the diffusion capacity of the membrane thin-layer oxygenator will suffice the oxygenation of the coronary minute volume of the arrested heart according to Langendorff as well as of the working heart according to Morgan. Primarily this oxygenator is useful for experimental organ perfusion in metabolic and functional tests, and organ preservation. Its functioning principles, however, also permit its use as thins-layer dialysator.