Abstract
The following is a design for a simple, inexpensive combination positive/negative pressure monitor, with applications in neonatal extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO).
Negative (venous) pressure in the ECMO tubing circuit is monitored in the traditional reservoir volume-sensing manner, with a 5cc reservoir and associated sensing circuitry. Positive (arterial) pressure is measured by any manufacturer's blood pressure transducer/amplifier combination. The analogue signal relating to this pressure is routed from the amplifier to the ECMO pressure monitor for comparison to a reference value. If the positive pressure exceeds this reference value (indicating an overpressure situation) or the pillow collapses (indicating excess negative pressure), respective audible and visual alarms are activated and power to the blood (roller) pump is removed. When the alarm situation is remedied, power is automatically restored to the pump.
The ECMO pressure monitor affords great sensitivity, accuracy and dependability. It is adaptable to most roller pump driven ECMO systems and blood pressure monitors. The device can be assembled by a competent electronics technician, at an approximate parts cost of US$325.00.
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