Importance

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Abstract

Apparatus and methods are disclosed for controlling the flow of a fluid past a membrane in a dialyzer. The apparatus disclosed includes a fluid conduit for conducting the fluid both towards and away from the dialyzer, a flow constrictor for creating a pressure drop in the fluid conduit either upstream or downstream of the dialyzer, a pump for pumping the fluid through that conduit, and a pressure detector for measuring a pressure corresponding to that pressure drop so as to control the flow therein. The method disclosed includes flowing the fluid through an upstream fluid conduit to the dialyzer and through a downstream fluid conduit away from the dialyzer, producing a relatively constant flow in both the upstream and downstream fluid conduits, creating a pressure drop in one of the fluid conduits, pumping the fluid through that conduit, and measuring the pressure corresponding to that pressure drop so that the flow of the fluid in that conduit can be controlled thereby.

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First Claim