Haematological characteristics of a new membrane oxygenator: the Cobe CML

The new Cobe CML membrane oxygenator is more compact than other membrane oxygenators and has a combined venous and cardiotomy suction reservoir. Its size makes it as easy to use as a bubble oxygenator. The studies reported here were designed to show whether the excellent haemocompatibility found with other types of membrane oxygenators had ben compromised by the changes introduced in the Cobe CML oxygenator. Platelet number and function (ADP induced aggregation) plasma betathromboglobulin concentration and plasma haemoglobulin concentration were studied in nine patients where the Cobe CML oxygenator had been used and these were compared with ten patients managed with a Shiley S-100 bubble oxygenator. We conclude that the constructional changes of the Cobe CML oxygenator do not affect the haemocompatibility of this type of membrane oxygenator and that it remains significantly better than the Shiley S-100 bubble oxygenator.