Characteristics of a nonocclusive pressure-regulated blood roller pump.

For decades, extracorporeal life support (ECLS) systems have relied on pumps designed for short-term cardiopulmonary bypass. In the past, occlusive roller pumps were the standard. They are being progressively replaced by centrifugal pumps and devices developed specifically for ECLS. However, the ideal pump for long-term bypass is yet to be created. One interesting alternative is the Rhône-Poulenc 06 pump that is a nonocclusive pressure-regulated blood pump developed in France in the 1970s. This pump is composed of a double-stage rotor with three rollers at each level. The raceway tubing is stretched on the roller and pump occlusivity depends on the tension of the chamber on the rotor. The pump is able to deliver physiological blood flow values without generating dangerous negative or positive pressures. The specific design of the chamber allows the pump to generate a pulsatile flow, inducing minimal blood trauma, and to act as a bubble trap, making it inherently safe. This pump has been used for cardiopulmonary bypass, extracorporeal lung support, and more specifically single-lumen single-cannula venovenous membrane oxygenation for neonates, left-heart or right-heart assist, and venovenous bypass during liver transplant. In conclusion, this old-fashion pump is perfectly adapted for any kind of short- or long-term bypass.