Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 20, 2026

Author Spotlight: Utilizing Next-Generation Polymerized Human Hemoglobin for Improved Donor Lung Evaluation and Preservation in Rats
Published on: June 14, 2024
Additional veno-venous gas exchange as a problem-solving strategy for an oxygenator not transferring oxygen in
Wolfgang Boettcher1, Nicodème Sinzobahamvya1, Frank Dehmel1
1Department of Congenital Heart Surgery, Deutsches Herzzentrum Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
Objectives:
Oxygenator failure during cardiopulmonary bypass constitutes a life-threatening event, especially when perfusion is conducted under normothermia. An alternative solution to emergency oxygenator changeover is described.
Methods:
A supplementary oxygenator is added in the venous line without interrupting perfusion. De-airing is achieved through the cardiotomy reservoir. Oxygen supply is adapted to ensure physiologic partial oxygen pressure.
Results:
On 5 occasions in the past 4 years, Capiox Baby FX 05 oxygenator (n = 4) and Capiox FX15 (n = 1) failed to exchange blood gases after bypass run ranging from 290 min to 563 min. Hypoxia ensued with partial oxygen pressure values of 49-79 mmHg with a fraction of inspired oxygen of 1. An additional veno-venous Terumo Capiox FX 05 oxygenator immediately improved oxygenation with resulting partial oxygen pressure increasing to at least 291 mmHg.
Conclusions:
An additional veno-venous oxygenator effectively corrects failing oxygenator during cardiopulmonary bypass. The method does not require circulation arrest. It does not carry the risk of air embolism. It can be carried out without any help from a second perfusionist or member of operation team.
Related Concept Videos
Oxygen Delivering System II: Venturi Mask and Transtracheal Oxygen
Venturi Mask
The Venturi mask, named after the Venturi effect, is designed to deliver precise oxygen concentrations. It consists of a large tube with an oxygen inlet that narrows down, causing a pressure drop that pulls air in through adjustable side ports. The mask is a lightweight,...
Treatment for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: Oxygen Therapy for Respiratory Failure
Oxygen therapy is vital in increasing and maintaining blood oxygen levels in PAH patients. As a result, it aids in reducing fatigue,...
Oxygen Delivering System III: Tracheostomy and T-piece
Tracheostomy
A tracheostomy is a surgically created opening (stoma) in the anterior part of the trachea. It is used to establish a patient airway, bypass an upper airway obstruction, simplify the removal of secretions, permit long-term...
Respiration and Gaseous Exchange
Respiration involves the exchange of gases, especially oxygen (O2) and carbon dioxide (CO2), between the alveoli and body cells, a process facilitated by blood circulation. As a result, the cardiovascular system, which involves...
Gas Exchange and Transport
Oxygen Delivering System I: Nasal Cannula and Face Mask
Nasal Cannula
A nasal cannula is a lightweight tube split at one end into two prongs and placed in the nostrils. It is typically used to deliver low to medium levels of oxygen.
Suggested flow rate: The suggested flow rate for a nasal cannula typically ranges between 1 and 6 L/min.
Oxygen percentage setting:...

