Rheometer and method for the use thereof

A device for determining the rheological properties of blood, the device comprising:

• a channel having a plurality of sub-sections, each sub-section having a substantially constant cross-section and being provided with a respective differential pressure apparatus for determining a pressure differential across at least a portion of that sub-section, the sub-sections being of different cross-sectional areas;
• a first reservoir that is adapted to be located at a first end of the channel and to be placed in fluid communication with the channel, the first reservoir being of variable internal volume;
• a second reservoir that is adapted to be placed in fluid communication with the first reservoir via the channel, the second reservoir being of variable internal volume;
• means for allowing blood to be introduced into the device;
• an outlet for allowing gas to be expelled from the device;
• and
• means for varying the volume of the first reservoir, such that when the first and second reservoirs are in fluid communication with the first and second ends of the channel respectively, blood may be caused to flow along the channel in alternating directions.