LIFE 18 – the first contact with an integrated device for treatment by means of immunoadsportion

Overview

In the introduction, the author describes currently used systems of immunoadsorption performed by combined separators of blood elements based on adsorptive and desorptive processes as well as adsorbents from different manufacturers. The first contacts with the novelty of Therasorb Company – integrated device for immunoadsorption LIFE 18 are described in this paper. It is a new and rare method in transfusiology. The device makes the plasma to be prepared for the immunoadsorption by means of combination of both centrifugation and filtration. It also integrates the preparation of plasma and adsorptive process into the one single step. Function of a new element – filter for preparation of plasma as well as a new concept of transmembrane pressure and its significance are described in this paper. Eighteen peristaltic pumps for each solution do the new design. Innovated adsorptive columns with liquid suspension containing sheep antibodies against human immunoglobulins are used for adsorption. An empty space is located upon the adsorptive columns. Attention is also paid to both air exhausting device of the columns and control of the adsorbent levels using infrared. The device enables unique repetitive transition into the regime by means of single needle vein access within one procedure. Finally, technical details, which make the service easier, manipulation with adsorptive columns, regenerative solutions, and so on, are described. Moreover, twenty minutes of adequate function of accumulator is discussed.

Key words:
extracorporeal elimination, immunoadsorption