Micro-processor controlled active gas removal apparatus

Apparatus for use in conjunction with a blood pump for degassing blood, the apparatus comprising:

• a venous line configured to be coupled to a patient;
• an outlet line configured to be coupled to the pump;
• a gas removal system interposed between the venous line and the outlet line, the gas removal system comprising a rigid housing having a substantially circular portion disposed beneath and in communication with a frustoconical gas collection plenum including a gas removal port, a filter element having a blood-impermeable upper wall disposed within the housing, and a blood inlet port configured so that venous blood entering the housing swirls around the upper wall before passing through the filter element, the gas removal system coupled directly to the pump so that the pump induces a negative pressure in the gas removal system and the venous line to draw blood through the blood inlet port;
• a sensor disposed on the gas collection plenum to monitor a level of gas or blood in the gas collection plenum;
• a suction line coupled to the gas removal port;
• a valve operatively associated with the suction line;
• a microprocessor-based controller coupled to the sensor to continuously monitor the level of gas or blood in the gas collection plenum, the controller programmed to selectively actuate the valve to remove gas accumulated in the gas collection plenum.