Abstract: Pulsatile blood flow in a heart-lung machine is accomplished by pumping blood into a bladder at a constant rate, and cyclically emptying the bladder into aortic line of the heart-lung machine either by means of the bladder's own elasticity or by a mechanical compression mechanism which can be programmed to simulate the human heartbeat.

Abstract: Blood heat exchanger apparatus with improved heat exchanged capability and improved bonding of micro-conduit heat exchange fibers. The micro-conduit comprises a plurality of elongated fibers, which may be made of a hydrophobic material such as polypropylene or polyethylene. The micro-conduit fibers may be provided as a heat exchanger micro-conduit wrapping material, wherein the micro-conduit fibers are attached to a thin flexible interconnect, such as woven netting, to maintain the fibers at predetermined and substantially parallel alignment with each other. The wrapping material is wrapped about an elongated spindle to provide a generally cylindrical heat exchange core. A shell is placed around the core to contain the heat transfer fluid which passes around the exterior of the fibers. Opposing first and second seals are created by applying potting compound between fibers proximate the spindle's first and second ends respectively.

Abstract: Pulsatile blood flow in a heart-lung machine is accomplished by pumping blood into a bladder at a constant rate, and cyclically emptying the bladder into aortic line of the heart-lung machine either by means of the bladder's own elasticity or by a mechanical compression mechanism which can be programmed to simulate the human heartbeat.

Abstract: Micro-conduit with enhanced wetting characteristics for use in providing a blood heat exchanger apparatus with improved heat exchange capability. The micro-conduit comprises a plurality of elongated fibers, which may be made of a hydrophobic material such as polypropylene or polyethylene. Each fiber is open at two opposing ends, and has an inner surface between the open ends. The inner surface is coated with a wetting agent, such as phosphatidyl choline or another ampiphilic material with a hydrophilic end and a hydrophobic end. The fibers may have a shape and size that without presence of the wetting agent, would otherwise substantially impair free passage of water. The micro-conduit may be provided as a heat exchanger micro-conduit wrapping material, wherein micro-conduit fibers are attached to a thin flexible interconnect, such as woven netting, to maintain the fibers at predetermined spacings in substantially parallel alignment with each other.

Abstract: Oxygen transfer to blood plasma in a blood oxygenator using a microporous membrane exposed to blood on one side and to oxygen on the other is facilitated by bonding an oxygen-carrying chemical such as hematin or a perfluorocarbon to at least the blood-contacting surface of the membrane.