hapenkäyttökalvoja

Hapenkäyttökalvoja, also known as oxygenator membranes or artificial lung membranes, are critical components in extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) systems. These specialized membranes are designed to mimic the gas exchange function of the lungs. They facilitate the transfer of oxygen from the oxygenator into the blood and the removal of carbon dioxide from the blood into the gas phase.

The primary material used in hapenkäyttökalvoja is typically a microporous polymer, such as polysulfone or polypropylene. These polymers are fabricated into thin, hollow fibers or flat sheet membranes with carefully controlled pore sizes. The microporous structure allows for efficient diffusion of gases while preventing the passage of larger molecules, including blood cells and proteins, thus maintaining blood compatibility.

During ECMO, blood is drawn from the patient, pumped through the oxygenator where it comes into close contact with the hapenkäyttökalvoja, and then returned to the patient's circulation. Oxygen is introduced on one side of the membrane, and it diffuses across the pores into the blood flowing on the other side. Simultaneously, carbon dioxide from the blood diffuses across the membrane into a sweep gas flowing on the opposite side, effectively removing it from the body. The efficiency of the oxygenator, and thus the patient's physiological support, is directly related to the surface area and permeability of the hapenkäyttökalvoja. Regular monitoring and maintenance of these membranes are essential for the safe and effective operation of ECMO.