Abstract
BACKROUND: The membrane oxygenator is a critical component of extracorporeal circulation (ECC), whose performance directly depends on its structural architecture. Differences in fiber geometry and winding patterns lead to variable hemodynamic pressure conditions. The resulting pressure drop Delta p (Δp) across the oxygenator module is a decisive indicator for system load and the risk of blood trauma. The aim of this study is the comparative analysis of the Δp of three commercial oxygenators: Medtronic Affinity Fusion, Eurosets A.L. ONE Plus, and LivaNova Inspire 8F, calculated from the difference between inlet and outlet pressure. METHODS: This prospective observational study included 60 patients divided into three groups of 20 patients each, based on the type of oxygenator used in their perfusion circuit. RESULTS: The results of the study show that the Δp value was significantly higher for the Inspire 8F compared to the Affinity Fusion and A.L. ONE Plus oxygenators. Between measurement points T2 and T11, the highest Δp was 116 ± 56 mmHg for the Medtronic group, 123 ± 26 mmHg for the Eurosets group, and 168 ± 33 mmHg for the Inspire 8F group. No significant differences in Δp were observed between the Affinity Fusion and the A.L. ONE Plus at any measurement point. CONCLUSION: The results of the study show that the Inspire has the highest Δp of all the oxygenators examined in this study. In addition to potential influencing factors, the value is also dependent on the internal structure and the surface properties of the oxygenators. However, the present study does not help to clarify the effects of the pressure before and after the oxygenator or the Δp itself on hemolysis and subsequent clinical parameters associated with the use of different commercially available oxygenators.