Abstract: A bundle (12) of hollow fiber (34) is formed by winding a length of hollow fiber around a core (38) from an arm (20) that is in a plane at an acute angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the core and is between opposite ends of the core. Relative rotation is provided between the longitudinal axis of the core and the position of the winding arm. During winding of the hollow fiber around the core, there is an increase in the ratio of (a) the angular velocity of the wind and (b) the relative rotational velocity between the longitudinal axis of the core and the position of the winding arm. In this manner, the void fraction of radially-outward annuli of the wound bundle is less than the void fraction would be if the ratio remained constant.

Abstract: Hydrophobic diffusion membranes such as porous polypropylene may be rendered hydrophilic at their surfaces, without losing their valuable characteristics as diffusion membranes, by subjection to a corona discharge or other ionizing condition, preferably in air or a similar oxygen-containing atmosphere.

Abstract: A filter assembly and element are disclosed herein for use in filtering biological fluids. The assembly includes a variable volume housing within which is positioned a cylindrically-shaped, high surface area filter. During operation, the housing volume is changed, but the surface area available for filtration remains substantially constant. This permits the filter to be operated with low priming volumes and also to effectively reduce gas bubble entrapment in the filter.A method of making the element and a method for operating the filter assembly are also disclosed.

Abstract: An oxygenator for blood which comprises means for removably holding a membrane oxygenator unit, means for conveying blood to a patient through the oxygenator unit in a first flow path and back to the patient, and means for supplying oxygen gas through the oxygenator unit in a second flow path separated from the first flow path in the unit by a semi-permeable membrane. The oxygenator unit holding means carries a plate which has an oxygen inlet manifold port positioned to communicate with a mounted oxygenated unit, to provide a sealed oxygen flow path through the plate into the oxygenator unit and to provide for dispersal of effluent oxygen in a plurality of directions, thereby preventing the accidental obstruction of the oxygen outlet of the unit.

Abstract: A reservoir for the collection, purification, and storage of blood during surgical procedures which comprises a hollow blood storage casing having a hollow, perforated member within said casing extending from end-to-end thereof. Blood defoaming means and a filter are carried by the hollow member, so that the blood defoamer and filter are noncollapsible, and extend the entire length of the chamber within the casing, with one of the ports communicating with the interior of the hollow member, so that blood passes through the perforations of the hollow member and defoamer-filter means.

Abstract: A reservoir for use with blood oxygenation apparatus is described herein. A chamber separator within said reservoir defines, in the interior thereof, a primary chamber and a secondary chamber, with a flow channel, connecting the primary and secondary chambers. A plurality of intake and outlet ports communicate with the primary chamber. The reservoir may be connected to blood oxygenation apparatus via the intake and outlet ports, while the flow channel may be clamped to prevent fluid flow between the primary and the secondary chambers, when it is desired to reduce the blood volume in the reservoir.