Abstract: A perfusion system for treating blood during a surgical procedure uses a flow control valve with first and second inlets and first and second outlets. A first intermediate line couples the first outlet to an air removal system. A second intermediate line couples blood from the air removal system to the second inlet. An arterial line carries treated blood from the second outlet back to the patient. The flow control valve has an open position and a recirculate position, wherein the first inlet is coupled to the first outlet when the flow control valve is in either the open position or the recirculate position. The second inlet is coupled to the second outlet and blocked from the first outlet in the open position. The second inlet is coupled to the first outlet and blocked from the second outlet in the recirculate position.

Abstract: A perfusion system for treating blood of a patient during a surgical procedure includes a venous line for carrying blood removed from the patient. A flow control valve has first and second inlets and first and second outlets, wherein the venous line is coupled to the first inlet. An air removal system is provided for removing emboli from the blood flowing in the perfusion system. A first intermediate line couples the first outlet of the flow control valve to the air removal system. A second intermediate line couples blood having passed through the air removal system to the second inlet of the flow control valve. An arterial line couples to the second outlet of the flow control valve for carrying treated blood back to the patient. The flow control valve is selectably placed in an open position or a recirculate position, wherein the first inlet is coupled to the first outlet when the flow control valve is in either the open position or the recirculate position.

Abstract: An overpressure safety valve assembly for use during heart surgery is disclosed. The assembly comprises an elongated tubular body portion having an inlet end, and an outlet end and an unidirectional valve disposed therebetween. A relief valve portion is joined to and in flow communication with the tubular portion. The relief valve portion includes a first relief valve configured to open if the pressure within the overpressure safety valve diminishes below a predetermined level, and a second relief valve configured to open if the pressure adjacent the outlet end exceeds a predetermined level. The first and second relief valves are disposed in a side by side configuration in a common conduit.