HEMOLYSIS WITH THE F21 HEMOPUMP

The aim of this study was to determine the influence of mechanical fac tors on free hemoglobin using an F21 hemopump cannula. These factors ( flow, rotary speed, reduction of the Gross section area of the silicon e tube and foreign material on the screw) were tested in a mock circul ation with ox blood. Irrelevant increases in free hemoglobin were indu ced by foreign bodies either in the inlet or on the screw. The hemopum p flow was easily affected and almost suppressed by small amounts of f oreign bodies on the screw. Other reasons for elevated concentrations of plasma free hemoglobin may imply a general disorder of the pump, an ticoagulation, renal function, red cells or a combination of these fac tors.