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.