An artificial lung, often referred to as Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO), works by taking over the function of the lungs, oxygenating the blood and removing carbon dioxide outside of the body. Here's a breakdown:
1. Blood Diversion:
- Blood is drawn from the patient's body, typically through a cannula (a thin tube) inserted into a large vein. This cannula allows blood to be continuously removed from the body.
2. Oxygenation and Carbon Dioxide Removal:
- The blood is then pumped through the artificial lung device, also known as a membrane oxygenator. This device contains a membrane made of a special synthetic material.
- Oxygenation: As the blood flows through the oxygenator, oxygen from a gas source passes across the membrane and into the blood.
- Carbon Dioxide Removal: Simultaneously, carbon dioxide from the blood passes across the membrane and is removed by the gas source. This process mimics the natural gas exchange that occurs in the lungs.
3. Blood Return:
- Once the blood is oxygenated and carbon dioxide is removed, it is returned to the patient's body through another cannula inserted into a vein or artery. This ensures continuous circulation of oxygenated blood.
Key Components and Function:
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| Cannulas | Tubes inserted into blood vessels to draw blood from the body and return oxygenated blood. |
| Blood Pump | Propels the blood through the ECMO circuit, ensuring continuous flow. |
| Membrane Oxygenator | Contains the synthetic membrane that facilitates gas exchange (oxygen in, carbon dioxide out). |
| Gas Blender | Controls the concentration of oxygen and other gases delivered to the membrane oxygenator. |
| Heat Exchanger | Regulates the temperature of the blood as it passes through the circuit. |
| Monitoring System | Continuously monitors various parameters such as blood flow, pressure, oxygen levels, and carbon dioxide levels. |
In essence, an artificial lung acts as an external gas exchange device, providing life-saving support when a patient's lungs are unable to perform their primary function.
