Ex vivo evaluation of a new extracorporeal lung assist device: NovaLung membrane oxygenator

When lung function is compromised,alternative devices need to be deployed in order to maintain blood oxygenation. A new device, NovaLung, has been designed for acute lung failure. We went about evaluating its gas exchange capability. Three calves (79.5 +/- 7.8 kg) were connected to the NovaLung System with a priming volume of 240 mL, gas exchange surface area of 1.3 m2 and exhibiting a biologically coated surface. A standard battery of blood samples were taken before implantation and over a six hour period. Hematocrit remained stable ranging from 27 +/- 4% (baseline) to 29 +/- 5% (6 hrs). Platelets were preserved ranging from 882 +/- 27.4 U/L (baseline) to 734 +/- 147 (6 hrs). LDH remained stable at 719 +/- 85 U/L (baseline) vs 686 +/- 190 U/L (6 hrs) and the pressure drop was maintained below 20 mmHg. Minimal hemolysis was observed. Oxygen transfer peaked at two hours acute extracorporeal lung support (ECLS)with a mean value of 130 +/- 50 ml/min. In conclusion, the device is easy to use,provides adequate O2 and CO2 transfer for partial lung support in an acute setting. Shows minimal signs of hemolysis and platelets levels are maintained throughout the six hour ECLS period.