Abstract: Concomitant measurement of EtCO.sub.2, EtN.sub.2 and (FiO.sub.2 -FeO.sub.2) concentrations are used to detect a VAE. In a respiratory gas monitoring system, continuous measurements of end-tidal carbon dioxide, end-tidal nitrogen and the difference between inspired and expired oxygen concentrations are averaged using a predetermined time period and stored as historical data. Periodically, a present value of each of these concentrations is compared to its respective historical average for a predetermined time period. If the following conditions are met, the device signals the presence of a venous air embolism: 1) a decrease in the EtCO.sub.2 concentration of 1.5 mm Hg; 2) an increase in the FeN.sub.2 concentration of 0.03 vol %; and 3) a decrease in the difference between the inspired oxygen concentration and the expired oxygen concentration of 0.20 vol %.

Abstract: An intravascular membrane lung is adapted for percutaneous venous insertion into a living body and comprises an elongated multi lumen catheter and elongated gas exchange members in the form of a large number of microporous fibers tethered at one end to the catheter and extending away from the catheter in all directions. The microporous fibers are in communication with the lumina of the catheter which includes one conduit for delivery of 100% oxygen to the fibers and another conduit for flushing away carbon dioxide from the fibers. The catheter extends between a proximal end and a distal end being a leading end for insertion into the body. The distal end includes a selectively inflatable balloon having an enlarged size larger than a nominal transverse dimension of said catheter and smaller than the inner nominal dimensions of any of the body cavities into which it extends.

Abstract: An intravascular membrane lung is adapted for percutaneous venous insertion into a living body and comprises an elongated multi lumen catheter and elongated gas exchange members in the form of a large number of microporous fibers tethered at one end to the catheter and extending away from the catheter in all directions. The microporous fibers are in communication with the lumina of the catheter which includes one conduit for delivery of 100% oxygen to the fibers and another conduit for flushing away carbon dioxide from the fibers. The catheter extends between a proximal end and a distal end being a leading end for insertion into the body. The distal end includes a selectively inflatable balloon having an enlarged size larger than a nominal transverse dimension of said catheter and smaller than the inner nominal dimensions of any of the body cavities into which it extends.