Controlled dilution controlled concentration cardioplegia solution

Abstract

A method and apparatus for preparing a cardioplegia mixture is provided which allows an increased level of control over the flow rate, dilution ration and concentration of cardioplegia inducing components in cardioplegia mixture during cardiovascular surgery. The method for preparing the cardioplegia mixture includes the steps of combining first and second crystalloid solutions of different concentrations to establish a total volume flow rate of combined solutions. The flow rate of the first crystalloid solution is self adjusted to equal the established total volume flow rate minus the established volume flow rate of the second crystalloid solution. The apparatus for preparing a cardioplegia mixture includes first and second crystalloid solutions containing a cardioplegia inducing component at different concentrations, and means for flowing and combining the solutions and establishing a total volume flow rate of the combined solution. The apparatus further includes means for self-adjustment of the flow rate of the first crystalloid solution to equal total the volume flow rate minus the established volume flow rate of the second crystalloid solution. The apparatus preferably includes a disposable tubing set for flowing, combining, and interconnecting the crystalloid solutions.