The TM bubble oxygenator: development and clinical application.

A bubble oxygenator (the TM or the OCVC oxygenator) has been produced with development efforts focused particularly on reduction of the nonphysiological characteristics of this type of oxygenator. The structural features of the apparatus are: (1) a reduction to the minimum of adequate priming volume, (2) an oxygen disperser designed to ensure evenly dispersed, uniform-sized bubbles, (3) a volume-control system for the oxygenating chamber (the OCVC system) based on extensive experimental oxygenation studies, and (4) an integrated double microfilter of the gravity-drainage type. Clinical features are: (1) ease of operation in perfusion, (2) reduction in hemolysis and postoperative blood loss, and (3) fewer complications associated with microemboli. Clinical use on over 200 infants and children proved generally very satisfactory. The background of its development is briefly described as are future modification plans.