Original Article

Expanded Use of the VPCML Oxygenator

Prairie Cardiovascular Center, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL

^* Direct communications to: Mary E. Bourland, M.D., Prairie Cardiovascular Center, P.O. Box 19420, Springfield, IL 62794-9420.

Abstract

The Variable Prime Cobe Membrane Lung (VPCML) is a membrane gas exchange device originally developed for the short term cardiopulmonary support of infants and small adults. A particular advantage is its low static priming volume of 425 cc. To assess the efficacy of the VPCML in heavier patients, we used it for cardiopulmonary bypass in 123 consecutive adult patients weighing 47-120 kg (mean 78 ± 15 kg). Arterial and venous blood gases were obtained simultaneously at maximum hypothermia and during rewarming.

Venous pO₂ was used to assess the adequacy of perfusion. Mean venous pO₂ during rewarming between the 60–70 kg group (n=22) and the 90–100 kg group (n=17) was 38±8 mmHg and 38±6 mmHg respectively (p = NS). Our results, with a mean flow of 3.79 ± 0.39 LPM, showed excellent gas exchange at maximum hypothermia and during rewarming regardless of weight range.

In summary, our experience with the VPCML oxygenator demonstrates its ability to safely and efficiently oxygenate a wide range of adult patients while keeping priming volume to a minimum.