Importance

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Abstract

A dialysis reuse system for cleansing, sterilizing and testing a hemodialysis machine and its associated dialyzer and blood tubing set. The reuse control device automatically controls either the selected reuse cycle or dialyzer test cycle as desired. In the reuse cycle a proper solution of bleach, rinse water and formaldehyde disinfectant is flushed through the system for a prearranged time period and in proper sequence to completely cleanse and disinfect the entire dialysis system including the dialyzer and blood lines. At the end of the cycle, the system is isolated, leaving the disinfectant solution intact within the system to prevent bacteria growth and contamination. In the dialyzer test cycle, a dialyzer clearance test is automatically performed using the associated hemodialysis machine to test the condition of the dialyzer membrane prior to patient treatment. The adapter valve allows the cleaning solution to be reversed through the blood side of the dialyzer, allowing momentary reversals to dislodge and remove any blood clots or other matter which may be present in the system. The fluid from the reuse device is drawn into the dialysis machine at a vacuum point in the dialysate tubing which also allows air to be removed from the reuse output fluid as well as causing the solutions to mix completely to obtain proper dilution. Conductivity testing of the fluids used in the system is periodically performed to verify that the proper solutions are present during the cleansing and disinfecting cycle as well as the clearance test performed for characterization of the dialyzer.

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First Claim