Importance

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Abstract

An open, volumetrically regulated patient fluid management system and method are disclosed. Fresh fluid is metered into a patient fluid exchange unit by a first metering device and spent fluid is drawn out by a pump. A back pressure regulator is provided across the pump to maintain its output pressure at a constant value. To the output of the pump are connected a second metering device and an open drain circuit. The second metering device meters out of the patient fluid exchange unit a predetermined quantity of spent fluid. The open drain circuit drains any fluid pumped by the pump, but not removed by the second metering device, to a drain open to atmospheric pressure. When the dialysis unit is deenergized, fluid in the dialyzer returns rapidly to atmospheric pressure by virtue of the open path through the open drain circuit, pump and back pressure regulator to the dialyzer.

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First Claim