| abstract |
Perfluorocarbon emulsion formulations are oxygenated prior to use by means of a portable oxygenation system. The blood substitute is in a closed container or bag. An oxygen-containing gas is introduced into the bag from a separate container. The bag is continuously agitated for a sufficient time to increase the pO 2 of the perfluorocarbon emulsion formulations to a desired pressure, e.g., to at least 600 mmHg. In one embodiment, the system used for oxygenation of the perfluorocarbon emulsion formulations comprises a small tank for gas having an inlet port and an outlet port fitted with shut-off valves. The outlet port is adapted to be connected to a filter which, in turn, is adapted to be connected to the inlet port of a three-way valve. The primary outlet of the three-way valve is adapted to mount a hypodermic needle which is adapted to be pushed through a rubber septum in a port of the bag to communicate with the interior of the bag. The tank is adapted to be filled with oxygen-containing gas, such as carbogen, from a main gas source under pressure. The tank, filter, three-way valve and needle arrangement are connected in series, and the oxygen-containing gas is permitted to flow from the tank into the bag holding the emulsion formulation. After the gas is introduced into the bag, the three-way valve is closed to prevent leakage of the gas from the container. The container is then agitated to oxygenate the emulsion formulation. |