Abstract: The invention provides a syringe for preventing anemia resulting from withdrawal of blood from a patient for analysis, the syringe including a cylindrical tube having a nozzle at its lower end to which a needle is attachable; a piston disposed within the tube and apiston handle protruding from the upper end of hte tube; the syringe being further adapted to a be placed in a centrifuge for separating blood drawn from the patient into supernatant plasma component and a packed-cells component, and further comprising means for separating or removing at least a portion of teh plasma, thereby facilitating the injection of the packed-cells back into the patient The invention also provides a method for preventing anemia resulting from the withdrawal of blood from a patient for analysis.

Abstract: An adapter for use with a centrifuge. Features of the adapter allow for less friction during extraction of the adapter and separation efficiency by preventing disturbances to the separated materials. In addition, the adapter includes features that support the walls of a sample container and prevent force from damaging the sample container during a centrifuge separation procedure.

Abstract: An object is to provide a blood component collection system capable of collecting a desired blood component of high quality. A blood component collection system 1 comprises a centrifugal separator 20 centrifuging blood into a plurality of components, first line 21 for feeding the blood to the centrifugal separator 20, a second line 22 for releasing the blood component from the centrifugal separator 20, a temporary reservoir bag 26? for temporarily reserving the platelet concentrate, a leukoreduction filter 261 for separating and reducing leukocyte from the platelet concentrate, and a platelet collection bag 26 for reserving the platelet concentrate having passed through the leukoreduction filter 261.

Abstract: The present invention relates to systems, methods and apparatus for improving the yield for separating components of fluids, for example biological or sensitive fluids such as blood, and improving the component yield, for example, from donated whole blood by separating its components by density in a centrifuge bowl with a multi-axial lumen. The apparatus, system, and method eliminate the need to batch-type separate blood and can reduce the time needed to treat patients suffering from T-cell or white blood cell mediated diseases or conditions to less than 70 minutes. In one aspect, the invention is a centrifuge bowl (10) comprising an outer housing (100); a core (200); a lower plate (300); a lumen (400); a first bowl channel (420) within said lumen (400) for inflowing said fluid (800); a second bowl channel (410) for removing a first separated fluid component (810); and a third bowl channel (740) for removing a second separated fluid component (820).

Abstract: An irritant or polymer is dispensed to the inner surface area of an aneurysm to exert a contractile force on the inner surface area of the aneurysm, thereby shrinking the aneurysm. As a result, the artery wall at the aneurysm site is strengthened, the risk of rupture is decreased, and at least a partial cure for the expansion of the arterial wall at the aneurysm site is provided.

Abstract: An apparatus that allows for separating and collecting a concentrated fraction of a fluid, such as a whole blood sample, adipose tissue, or a bone marrow sample. The apparatus, when used with a centrifuge, allows for the creation of at least three fractions in the apparatus. It also provides for a new method of extracting the buffy coat phase from a whole blood sample. The apparatus includes a container to be placed to a centrifuge after being filled with a whole blood sample. A buoy or fraction separator, which has a density less than that of red blood cells of a whole blood sample, is disposed in the container. During the centrifuge process the buoy separates the red blood cells from another fraction of the whole blood. After the centrifuge process is finished a plunger is used to produce at least two other fractions, including a plasma fraction and a buffy coat. Then, the buffy coat may be removed from the container without commingling the fractions of the sample.

Abstract: A system for separating a composite fluid into component parts thereof, including: a centrifuge having a rotor with a separation space and at least two valve members disposed thereon and a container set having a separation container adapted to be disposed in the separation space of the rotor and first and second collection containers connected to the separation container by a first and a second tubes. The tubes are adapted to be disposed in operative relationship with the valve members so that flow through the tubes may be controlled thereby. Three components of the composite fluid may be separated therefrom by the present system and two components may be moved to the collection containers. The container set may further include a third collection container connected to the separation container by a tube, and a third component may thus be moved to this third container.

Abstract: A system for automatically collecting and separating whole blood into its components is described. The system includes a console, which contains all motors, pumps, sensors, valves and control circuitry, and a unique disposable set that includes a cassette supporting a centrifuge with an improved design, pump interfaces with an improved design, component and solution bags, and tubing. Various processes are implemented using a specific disposable set for each process which allows automatic identification of the process to be performed the console.

Abstract: An extracorporeal blood processing system is disclosed which includes a variety of novel components and which may be operated in accordance with a variety of novel methodologies. For instance, the system includes a graphical operator interface which directs the operator through various aspects of the apheresis procedure. Moreover, the system also includes a variety of features relating to loading a blood processing vessel into a blood processing channel and removing the same after completion of the procedure. Furthermore, the system also includes a variety of features relating to utilizing a blood priming of at least portions of the apheresis system in preparation for the procedure. In addition, the system includes a variety of features enhancing the performance of the apheresis system, including the interrelationship between the blood processing vessel and the blood processing channel and the utilization of high packing factors for the procedure.

Abstract: The claimed invention refers to a centrifuge intended for processing blood and blood components and with its function based on the effective utilisation of ring type blood processing bags with associated secondary bags and other accessories. The most outstanding feature of the centrifuge, in accordance with the claimed invention, is that its rotor, at the same intended height of the ring bag (22) inner periphery, shows at least three supports (9–11) arranged along this periphery and intended to locate the ring bag's inner strengthened periphery edge on guide holes at the same time as the centrifuge and its rotor is equipped with a joint rotating inner lid (6) which includes a clamp function (7) that clamps ring bag (22) securely along and between supports (9–11).

Abstract: A separation method comprises introducing a first fluid comprising first and second components having different density into a centrifugal field and allowing an interface to form between at least portions of such components at a first location. The method also comprises moving the interface from the first location to a second location and further comprises introducing the first fluid and removing one of the first and second components at known controlled flow rates so as to move the interface from the second location in a direction toward the first location and to return the interface to the second location. The flow rate of the first or second component may be determined based, at least in part, on the time interval between the interface moving from and returning to the second location. The flow rate may also be based on the weight of the one component removed during the time interval.

Abstract: Method for separating blood plasma particles from a blood plasma suspension in a self-discharging centrifuge having two or more discharge slits and axially stacked baffle plates, in which the blood plasma particles are separated from the liquid phase by centrifuging and removal of the liquid phase, suctioning off liquid remaining in the drum after separation of the blood plasma particles and discharging the sediment of solid blood plasma particles from the drum by centrifugal force into a collecting container underneath the drum, the drum and the blood plasma sediment being cooled during one or more of the process steps.

Abstract: The disclosure includes a flexible bag (1) intended to receive a biological fluid with a view to its centrifugation. The bag includes an external enclosure (2) formed by two sheets of flexible plastic (3, 3?) connected at their periphery (4) so as to define an internal volume (5) for the fluid. The external enclosure (2) is provided with at least one inlet (6) and/or outlet (7) orifice for the fluid. The bag (1) also includes means (8) for the temporary association of at least one component with the bag (1). The means (8) is disposed on the external enclosure (2), in which the temporary association means are assembled on the bag (1) on a part of the periphery (4) of the enclosure (2) and are arranged to allow the insertion of the component between the means (8) and the enclosure (2) so as to provide temporary association during the centrifugation of the bag (1).

Abstract: A multiple function pump station performs different on-line processing tasks. The pump station can be operated in one mode to draw blood from a donor can, in another mode, be operated to return blood to the donor. The pump station used to draw blood from a donor can also be used to perform subsequent blood processing tasks, such as mixing processing or additive fluids with the blood, or transfering a harvested blood component to a storage container, or finishing the processing of a harvested blood component, e.g., by passage through a filter to remove leukocytes.

Abstract: A system for automatically processing blood components is described. The system includes a console, which contains all motors, pumps, sensors, valves and control circuitry, and a unique disposable set that includes a cassette supporting a centrifuge with an improved design, pump interfaces with an improved design, component and solution bags, and tubing. Various processes are implemented using a specific disposable set for each process which allows automatic identification of the process to be performed the console.

Abstract: An apparatus is adapted to centrifuge a container for separating a component, such as fibrin monomer, from blood or plasma. The container includes a cylindrical member, and a piston displaceable therein and a tubular piston rod, which extends through a top wall of the cylindrical member. The piston divides the cylindrical member into a first chamber positioned above the piston between the piston and the top wall, and a second chamber positioned below the piston. The apparatus includes a supporting turntable which releasably retains the cylindrical member. The supporting turntable is connected to a first activator for rotating the supporting turntable with the container about the central axis thereof. The apparatus also includes a rotatably journalled piston activating mechanism adapted to activate the piston by a second activator.

Abstract: Reovirus can be used to selectively remove ras-mediated neoplastic cells from a cellular composition. It is of particular interest to purge autographs which may contain neoplastic cells with reovirus before transplanting the autographs back into the recipient, thereby reducing the risk of introducing or reintroducing neoplastic cells into the recipient.

Abstract: Systems and related methods pump fluid through a pump. The pump comprises a pump chamber, which is responsive to applied pressures to convey fluid. The systems and methods place an electrode in electrical conductive contact with fluid in the pump chamber which, in use, is coupled to an electrical source. The electrode generates an electrical field in the pump chamber that varies according volume of fluid in the pump chamber. The systems and methods register variations in the electrical field as fluid is conveyed through the pump chamber.

Abstract: The invention provides a system for preparing an autologous solid-fibrin web suitable for regenerating tissue in a living organism. The system includes a sealed primary container containing a separation medium and a low-density high-viscosity liquid. The separation medium separates red blood cells from plasma when the container contains blood and is centrifuged, and the primary container has a first pressure. The system further includes a sealed secondary container containing a calcium-coagulation activator. The secondary container has a second pressure that is less than the first pressure. The system also comprises a transfer device including a cannula having a first end and a second end. The first and second ends puncture the sealed primary and secondary containers in order to provide fluid communication between the first and second containers. The low-density high-viscosity liquid of the primary container blocks flow through the cannula upon entering therein.

Abstract: A device for autologous blood transfusion includes a centrifuge unit with an autotransfusion set rotatably mounted thereto. The autotransfusion set includes a separation unit for concentrating a cell fraction by centrifugation and a tubing system for providing a connection to a blood supply. The tubing system includes a blood supply line leading to the separation unit for supplying blood to be processed and a return line leading away from the separation unit. A filter is integrated into the autotransfusion set in order to eliminate leukocytes and/or tumor cells, thereby yielding greater safety in autotransfusion.

Abstract: A centrifuge system with an externally positioned sensor assembly for detecting the separation of components in a fluid sample, such as platelets in a blood sample. The system includes a centrifuge with a drive portion and a rotor portion with a sample reservoir or centrifuge bag for receiving and containing a fluid sample during rotation of the rotor portion. An external sensor assembly is positioned relative to the centrifuge to direct a radiation beam from a radiation source through the rotor portion and the centrifuge bag and to allow a detector to receive the lower-intensity radiation beams at a location external to the rotor portion. In one embodiment, the rotor portion is fabricated from a transparent material and extends radially outward from the sides of the drive portion to allow the radiation source and detector to be positioned externally on opposing sides of the extending rotor portion.

Abstract: A method and a device for separating a component, such as fibrin I from blood, by centrifugation. The method involves feeding of blood admixed an anticlotter to a first annular chamber in a device, where the annular chamber is defined by a cylindrical outer wall and a cylindrical inner wall, both walls extending coaxially about a common axis, as well as by a top wall and a bottom wall, where the top wall or the bottom wall is formed by a piston body displaceable within the first chamber. The method involves furthermore a centrifugation of the device about the said common axis followed by a resulting liquid fraction being transferred while influenced by the piston body to a second chamber defined by an outer cylindrical wall, which extends coaxially with said common axis.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus particularly involving the separation of blood into blood components and the collection of such components are disclosed. In one aspect, an extra-corporeal method for the collection of plasma and red blood cells is provided, wherein the collection of plasma and red blood cells may occur simultaneously or subsequently utilizing the same dual stage blood processing vessel. The flow of blood to the blood processing vessel and return of uncollected blood components may be provided via a single needle, wherein blood is removed from and returned to a donor/patient during alternating blood removal and blood return submodes. Platelet separation and collection options are also described. In either case, prior to red blood cell collection, a set-up phase may be carried out to set a predetermined hematocrit and AC ratio. Replacement fluid delivery may optionally also be provided either substantially continuously during any collection phase(s) and/or in a bolus mode.

Abstract: An extracorporeal blood processing system is disclosed which includes a variety of novel components and which may be operated in accordance with a variety of novel methodologies. For instance, the system includes a graphical operator interface which directs the operator through various aspects of the apheresis procedure. Moreover, the system also includes a variety of features relating to loading a blood processing vessel into a blood processing channel and removing the same after completion of the procedure. Furthermore, the system also includes a variety of features relating to utilizing a blood priming of at least portions of the apheresis system in preparation for the procedure. In addition, the system includes a variety of features enhancing the performance of the apheresis system, including the interrelationship between the blood processing vessel and the blood processing vessel and the utilization of high packing factors for the procedure.

Abstract: Systems and methods centrifugally separate whole blood into red blood cells, plasma, and a platelet concentrate. The systems and methods rotate a first rotating separation zone about a rotational axis, to separate whole blood into red blood cells and plasma constituent carrying platelets. Red blood cells separated are directed in a first circumferential flow direction toward a terminal wall, where blood flow is halted. Surface hematocrit is successively increased in the first circumferential flow direction by separating the plasma constituent from the red blood cells. Separated red blood cells are directed from the first rotating separation zone through a path where the surface hematocrit is the most. Plasma constituent separated is directed in a second circumferential flow direction opposite to the first circumferential flow direction toward a different region in the first rotating separation zone, where the surface hematocrit is the least.

Abstract: A system for the production of a blood component composition is provided. The system includes a centrifuge having a blood reservoir for receiving and separating a blood sample into multiple components; a dispenser disposed outside of the centrifuge having a first collection chamber containing an activation agent and a second collection chamber containing one or more medicinal agents; means for removing a first portion at least one separated blood component from the centrifuge to the first container and a second portion to the second collection chamber, wherein the first collection chamber activates the first portion and stores the resulting clot and thrombin; a filter for separating the thrombin from the clot; and a nozzle for entraining and mixing the thrombin with the second portion containing the one or more medicinal components.

Abstract: A platelet collecting apparatus 1 comprises a centrifugal separator 20 possessing a rotatable rotor 142; a first line 21 for allowing the flow of the blood entering the centrifugal separator 20; a second line 22 for allowing the flow of the blood emanating from the centrifugal separator, a plasma collecting bag 25 connected to the first line 21 and the second line 22 so as to collect the plasma emanating from the centrifugal separator 20 and return the collected plasma to the centrifugal separator 20, a platelet collecting bag 26 connected to the second line 22 so as to collect the platelets emanating from the centrifugal separator 20, a blood delivering pump 11 disposed in the first line 21, and a controller 13 for controlling the operation of the rotor of the centrifugal separator 20 and the operation of the blood delivering pump 11.

Abstract: Automated systems and method for processing blood and other fluids are disclosed. The systems and methods utilize a disposable fluid circuit selected from one of two or more circuits. The circuits are mounted on a re-usable hardware component or module. The system includes a programmable controller including programs for use with the fluid circuits.

Abstract: Blood processing systems and methods convey blood cells from a blood cell source into a blood component collection flow channel that includes a blood cell storage container and an in-line filter to remove leukocytes from blood cells before entering the blood cell storage container. The systems and methods also convey additive solution from an additive solution source into the blood component collection flow channel. The systems and methods alternate the conveyance of blood cells through the filter with the conveyance of additive solution through the filter.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for producing blood component products. In one embodiment, a plurality of a predetermined type of blood component is harvested from a source of whole blood. At least two on-line yield determination techniques are utilized to determine the yield for the harvested blood components. One is a predetermined yield prediction technique and the second is a predetermined yield monitoring technique, each of which are individually calibrated in relation to a predetermined off-line yield determination technique. The predetermined yield prediction and monitoring techniques each provide the yield for the harvested blood components and each is then utilized to provide a determined yield. Consequently, when the harvested blood components are packaged the determined yield my be associated therewith, thereby providing a blood component product.

Abstract: Systems and methods convey the blood through a gap defined between an inner surface that is located about an axis and an outer surface that is concentric with the inner surface. At least one of the inner and outer surfaces carries a membrane that consists essentially of either a hemofiltration membrane or a hemodialysis membrane. The systems and methods cause relative movement between the inner and outer surfaces about the axis at a selected surface velocity, taking into account the size of the gap. The relative movement of the two surfaces creates movement of the blood within the gap, which creates vortical flow conditions that induce transport of cellular blood components from the membrane while plasma water and waste material are transported to the membrane for transport across the membrane. Shear-enhanced transport of waste materials and blood plasma water results.

Abstract: A blood separation system is fully mechanized to collect blood from a patient, separate waste portions of the blood, wash the blood, and redirect the usable portions to a device for reinjecting the usable portions into the patient. The system provides screen displays with detailed setup instructions and instructs the operator at the appropriate times to do certain manual steps. Apparatus for sequestration of platelet rich plasma spins at a high speed sufficient to separate solid cells from the blood sample and then spins at a lower speed for a predetermined time to allow platelets to elute from the solid cells.

Abstract: Systems and methods treat plasma carrying contaminants and cellular matter that are capable of entraining contaminants. The systems and methods separate cellular matter from the plasma by filtration, thereby removing contaminants entrained within the cellular matter. The system and methods add to the plasma a photoactive material. The systems and methods emit radiation at a selected wavelength into the plasma to activate the photoactive material and thereby eradicate the contaminant that is free of entrainment by cellular matter.

Abstract: Blood is purified by removing the whole blood from a patient and feeding the blood into a manifold in a centrifuge. A purifying chamber is formed in the centrifuge from a plurality of co-arcuately arranged modules. The blood is supplied from the manifold to each of the modules. Each module contains a stack of dialysate membranes. Fresh dialysate is fed into the manifold and then to each of the modules. Under centrifugal force the cells are separated from the plasma. The plasma is purified by removing contaminants as a result of the action of the dialysate and membranes. The purified blood is returned to the patient by being fed back to the manifold and then to the patient. The used dialysate/contaminants are fed from the modules back to the manifold and out of the centrifuge.

Abstract: Blood separation systems and methods introduce blood into an annular separation channel between a low-G wall and a high-G wall while rotating the separation channel about an axis, for separation of the blood into blood components. The annular separation channel has an annular boundary wall. The systems and methods direct a first blood component into a constricted channel along the low-G wall. The systems and methods remove the first blood component through a first path that communicates with the separation channel through an opening that adjoins the constricted channel adjacent the low-G wall. The systems and methods direct a second blood component along a surface that extends generally in an axial direction along the high-G wall toward the annular boundary wall. The systems and methods collect the second blood component through a second path that communicates with the separation channel through an opening that adjoins the surface adjacent the high-G wall axially spaced from the annular boundary wall.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus particularly involving the separation of blood into blood components and the collection of such components are disclosed. In one aspect, an extra-corporeal method for the collection of plasma and red blood cells is provided, wherein the collection of plasma and red blood cells may occur simultaneously or subsequently utilizing the same dual stage blood processing vessel. The flow of blood to the blood processing vessel and return of uncollected blood components may be provided via a single needle, wherein blood is removed from and returned to a donor/patient during alternating blood removal and blood return submodes. Platelet separation and collection options are also described. In either case, prior to red blood cell collection, a set-up phase may be carried out to set a predetermined hematocrit and AC ratio. Replacement fluid delivery may optionally also be provided either substantially continuously during any collection phase(s) and/or in a bolus mode.

Abstract: A method and device for removing gas from gas containing blood. A non-rotating cyclone eddy chamber has the blood circulating therein and centrifugal force separates the blood radially outward and the gas radially inward. The cyclone inlet comprises a blood inlet channel that extends in a helical circular form developed to narrow in funnel like manner in the direction of flow toward the cyclone eddy chamber to accelerate the blood flow entering that chamber tangentially. A gas outlet is arranged in the radially inner center of the cyclone eddy chamber path while the blood outlet is coaxial and outward of the gas outlet.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus particularly involving the separation of blood into blood components and the collection of such components are disclosed. In one aspect, an extra-corporeal method for the collection of plasma and red blood cells is provided, wherein the collection of plasma and red blood cells may occur simultaneously or subsequently utilizing the same dual stage blood processing vessel. The flow of blood to the blood processing vessel and return of uncollected blood components may be provided via a single needle, wherein blood is removed from and returned to a donor/patient during alternating blood removal and blood return submodes. Platelet separation and collection options are also described. In either case, prior to red blood cell collection, a set-up phase may be carried out to set a predetermined hematocrit and AC ratio. Replacement fluid delivery may optionally also be provided either substantially continuously during any collection phase(s) and/or in a bolus mode.

Abstract: The rotor assembly is provided for the separation and harvesting of rare cells in a blood sample. A displacing fluid reservoir is located at least partially radially inward of a centrifuging chamber, wherein a displacing fluid of a greater density than the fluid in the centrifuging chamber is retained in the displacing fluid reservoir. Upon rotation of the rotor assembly, the displacing fluid is allowed to pass into the centrifuging chamber, typically at an outer periphery of the centrifuging chamber, so as to urge the latest separated component in the centrifuging chamber through an outlet port coincident with the axis of rotation of the rotor assembly.

Abstract: Automated systems and methods for withdrawing and replacing fluids in a patient are disclosed. The system withdraws blood from a donor or patient, separates the blood into two or more components and collects the separated component. A replacement fluid capable of at least partially providing the biological function of the separated component is infused into the patient.

Abstract: A device for preparing plasma concentrate from plasma containing cells (plasma-cell mixture) comprising a centrifugal separation chamber having a plasma-cell mixture inlet port and an centrifugal separation chamber outlet port; a concentrating chamber having an inlet port and a concentrate outlet, the inlet port communicating with the centrifugal separation chamber outlet port, the concentrating chamber containing hydrogel beads and at least one inert agitator; and a concentrate chamber having an inlet communicating with the concentrate outlet through a filter, the concentrate chamber having a plasma concentrate outlet port.

Abstract: A means, apparatus, and system for reducing the net fluid volume deficiency in a patient during a medical treatment process. The invention seeks to modify a batch-type process to achieve the efficiency of a continuous process by precisely measuring the net change in fluid volume within a patient and dispensing the appropriate amount of biological fluids to a patient via IV lines or by recycling blood components into the patient while biological fluids are being withdrawn. The apparatus includes subcomponent lines, valving means, pumping means, load cells, storage chambers, a centrifuge, and centrifuge bowls. The system may have numerous feedback components to accurately measure and control the flow rates and amount of fluid dispensed to a patient.

Abstract: An extracorporeal blood processing system is disclosed which includes a variety of novel components and which may be operated in accordance with a variety of novel methodologies. For instance, the system includes a graphical operator interface which directs the operator through various aspects of the apheresis procedure. Moreover, the system also includes a variety of features relating to loading a blood processing vessel into a blood processing channel and removing the same after completion of the procedure. Furthermore, the system also includes a variety of features relating to utilizing a blood priming of at least portions of the apheresis sytem in preparation for the procedure. In addition, the system includes a variety of features enhancing the performance of the apheresis system, including the interrelationship between the blood processing vessel and the blood processing channel and the utilization of high packing factors for the procedure.

Abstract: A method of processing blood establishes communication between a donor and a blood flow path and pumps whole blood from the donor into a container through the blood flow path. The method centrifugally separates the whole blood in the container into concentrated red blood cells and a plasma constituent. After the method interrupts communication between the donor and the blood flow path, the method pumps the concentrated red blood cells from the container to mix the concentrated red blood cells with a nutritive solution to restore the hematocrit of the concentrated red blood cells to a desired value. The method also removes the plasma constituent.

Abstract: Systems and methods separate pump the blood cells through an in-line leukofilter to a blood cell storage container. The leukofilter has a filtration medium enclosed within a flexile housing. The systems and methods can employ a fixture to restrain expansion of the flexible filter housing during operation of the pump.

Abstract: An extracorporeal blood processing method includes a set-up phase establishing certain conditions in blood being processed prior to separation of the blood into components. Also, a blood processing method contemporaneously extracts selected multiple blood components from a blood processing vessel. Blood is separated into components in the blood processing vessel in a centrifugal field. Further, an extracorporeal blood processing method establishes a packing factor in the blood processing vessel prior to collecting red blood cells.

Abstract: A system for filtering and processing blood that is simple to implement and that reduces the need for human intervention. The system may be used to collect red blood cells (RBCs). For such a system, a disposable set may be provided with an inlet port, an RBC container, a centrifuge rotor having a variable total volume, and a filter, along with tubing connecting the port, the container, the rotor and the filter. The filter is located in tubing between the inlet port and the rotor. A control unit is also provided and includes a spinner in which the rotor may be held, a flow-control arrangement for controlling flow among the various components of the disposable set, and an electronic controller. The whole blood is directed by the flow-control arrangement from the inlet through the filter to the rotor. The rotor includes an elastic diaphragm, and the control unit's flow-control arrangement includes a pump or other device for applying a positive and negative pressure to the rotor's elastic diaphragm.

Abstract: An extracorporeal blood processing system including a disposable assembly that has integral fluid passageways. A blood removal conduit and a blood return conduit are interconnected with the integral fluid passageways. A diaphragm is mounted in the disposable assembly and is removably attachable to a sensor via a number of connection devices. In one embodiment, the sensor may include a transducer that is capable of measuring the force exerted on the diaphragm. The corresponding force may be correlated to a pressure of fluid in either the blood removal conduit and/or the blood return conduit.

Abstract: Systems and methods for processing blood use at least one fluid activated pump and at least one fluid activated valve. The systems and methods apply positive and negative fluid pressures to operate the pump and valve. Different pressure conditions are applied to the pump and the valve, to insure that a valve used in conjunction with a pump is not overcome by the pressure applied to operate the pump, and that both the valve and pump are not overcome by normal system processing pressures.

Abstract: A centrifuge is capable of holding a sample container in selected orientations, either during or after centrifugation, to drain supernatants between two or more chambers of the container. The draining may be gravity or centrifugal draining. This allows an automated process to subject a sample to a first physical or chemical treatment to produce a first supernatant, the first supernatant to be subjected to a second physical or chemical treatment, and a second supernatant to be separated from a desired component.