[Micropore filters for preventing venous air embolism during infusions (author's transl)]

The use of automatic pumps in intensive care medicine does not preclude the risk of accidental air embolism. The repeated introduction of small air bubbles into the infusion system in the course of additional medication may have a cumulative effect resulting in the blocking of the pulmonary capillary system. The use of 0.22 micrometer filters for eliminating air prevents this complication of infusion therapy. The efficacy of the microfilter Ultipor type FAE-020 (marketed by Pall Biomedizin GmbH) in preventing the introduction of air was tested in 50 specimens with 650 single injections and 10 slow drip infusions by means of the ultrasound Doppler technique. The filters reliably stopped the introduction of air into the circulation.