Patent ID: 7476210
Filing Date: 2009-01-13
Classification: A61M

Abstract:
1. A method of carrying out human or animal in-vivo plasmapheresis comprising: implanting a filter device within a blood vessel of a patient, said filter device comprising a plurality of elongated hollow microporous fibers; providing a catheter in fluid communication with the hollow interior of said fibers, and diffusing plasma and toxins from the patient's blood through the wall of said fibers into the hollow interior thereof; and periodically interrupting said diffusion of plasma and toxins and backflushing said fibers by directing a backflush fluid containing an amount of anticoagulant at least sufficient to provide fiber thromboresistance through said catheter into said fibers at a pressure and for an interval sufficient to substantially clear the pores of said filter, and after said interval, resuming said diffusion of plasma.