Blood purification apparatus

Abstract

To realize accurate control of a pump with a simple configuration even when an apparatus vibrates.SOLUTION: In a blood purification apparatus, a first flow path 31 is directly or indirectly connected to a blood purifier 10. The first flow path 31 is capable of supplying a first liquid L1, which is at least one of a dialysis solution and fluid replacement. A first liquid storage container 41 is connected to an end on the opposite side to the blood purifier 10 side of the first flow path 31. A pump 31P is provided in the first flow path 31. The pump 31P is capable of sending the liquid L stored in the first liquid storage container 41 toward the blood purifier 10 side in the first flow path 31. A pressure gauge 51 is attached to the first liquid storage container 41. The pressure gauge 51 measures an internal pressure of the first liquid storage container 41. A control unit 60 is connected to the pressure gauge 51 and the pump 31P. The control unit 60 operates the pump 31P on the basis of a value of the internal pressure of the first liquid storage container 41 measured by the pressure gauge 51.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a blood purification device. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a conventional blood purification device. In this blood purification device, a measurement unit of a scale measures the total weight change of a first weighing bag and a second weighing bag attached to a mounting unit of the scale. It is disclosed that the control unit may be electrically connected to valves, pumps, scales, etc. in the blood purification device.

[0003] Patent Document 2 discloses another conventional blood purification device. In this blood purification device, dialysate contained in a dialysate container is supplied to the blood purifier via a dialysate supply circuit equipped with a dialysate supply pump. A dialysate supply flow rate detection container is connected to the blood circuit so as to branch off from the dialysate supply circuit. Replacement fluid contained in a replacement fluid container is supplied to the blood circuit via a replacement fluid supply circuit equipped with a replacement fluid supply pump. A replacement fluid supply flow rate detection container is connected to the blood circuit so as to branch off from the replacement fluid supply circuit. A pressure gauge is connected to the dialysate supply flow rate detection container and the replacement fluid supply flow rate detection container as pressure change detection means for detecting pressure changes accompanying changes in the height of the water column of the fluid in each flow rate detection container. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-119235 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-229056 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In conventional blood purification devices, pumps and other components are controlled by detecting changes in the weight of a fluid storage bag. However, when the blood purification device vibrates, the fluid storage bag also vibrates, making it difficult to accurately detect changes in the weight of the fluid storage bag. In this case, the pump of the blood purification device may not be accurately controlled. On the other hand, other conventional blood purification devices equipped with a pressure gauge are equipped with a detection container and a branch flow path to which the pressure gauge is connected, in addition to a container that stores liquid to be sent to the blood purifier side. This makes the circuitry of the blood purification device complex.

[0006] The present disclosure has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and aims to provide a blood purification device that can accurately control the pump with a simple configuration even when the device vibrates. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A blood purification device according to the present disclosure includes a blood purifier, a vascular access channel, a first channel, a first fluid storage container, a pump, a pressure gauge, and a controller. The vascular access channel is connected to the blood purifier. The vascular access channel is in communication with the blood purifier. The first channel is directly or indirectly connected to the blood purifier. The first channel can supply a first fluid that is at least one of a dialysate and a replacement fluid. The first fluid storage container is connected to an end of the first channel opposite the blood purifier side. The first fluid storage container can store at least the first fluid. A pump is provided in the first channel. The pump can send the fluid stored in the first fluid storage container to the blood purifier side in the first channel. A pressure gauge is attached to the first fluid storage container. The pressure gauge measures the internal pressure of the first fluid storage container. The controller is connected to the pressure gauge and the pump. The controller operates the pump based on the value of the internal pressure of the first fluid storage container measured by the pressure gauge. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present disclosure, accurate control of the pump can be achieved with a simple configuration even when the device vibrates. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a circuit diagram showing the configuration of a blood purification device according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a blood purification apparatus according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] 4 is a flowchart showing an example of control by the control unit when blood purification is performed in the first embodiment. [Figure 4] Schematic diagram showing the blood removal process. [Figure 5] FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a circuit diagram showing the blood return process. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart showing another example of control by the control unit when blood purification is performed in the first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 4 is a circuit diagram showing the configuration of a blood purification device according to a modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a circuit diagram showing the configuration of a blood purification device according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a blood purification apparatus according to a second embodiment. [Figure 11] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of control by the control unit when blood purification is performed in the second embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a circuit diagram showing a state after step S110 in the second embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a circuit diagram showing a state after step S130 in the second embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a circuit diagram showing a state after step S150 in the second embodiment. [Figure 15] 10 is a flowchart showing another example of control by the control unit when blood purification is performed in the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Hereinafter, blood purification devices according to embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description of the embodiments, the same or corresponding parts in the drawings will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will not be repeated.

[0011] (Embodiment 1) Fig. 1 is a circuit diagram showing the configuration of a blood purification device according to embodiment 1 of the present disclosure, and Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the blood purification device according to embodiment 1.

[0012] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the blood purification device 1 includes a blood purifier 10, a vascular access flow path 21, an access valve 21V, a first flow path 31, a pump 31P, a supply flow path 35, a first valve 35V, a drainage flow path 36, a second valve 36V, a branch flow path 38, a branch valve 38V, a first liquid storage container 41, a supply source 45, a pressure gauge 51, a control unit 60, and an alarm unit 70.

[0013] The interior of blood purifier 10 is divided into a first section 11 and a second section 12 by a semipermeable membrane 15 such as a hollow fiber membrane. In this embodiment, the inner space surrounded by semipermeable membrane 15 is first section 11, and the space outside semipermeable membrane 15 is second section 12.

[0014] The vascular access channel 21 is connected to the blood purifier 10. The vascular access channel 21 communicates with the blood purifier 10. The vascular access channel 21 communicates with the first section 11. A puncture needle is provided at the end of the vascular access channel 21 opposite the blood purifier 10 side. The access valve 21V is provided so as to be able to open and close the vascular access channel 21.

[0015] The first flow path 31 is connected directly or indirectly to the blood purifier 10. In this embodiment, the first flow path 31 is directly connected to the blood purifier 10. The first flow path 31 communicates with the blood purifier 10. The first flow path 31 communicates with the first section 11. The first flow path 31 is configured to be able to supply a first fluid L1, which is at least one of a dialysis fluid and a replacement fluid. The first fluid L1 is, for example, physiological saline or a dialysis fluid.

[0016] Pump 31P is provided in first flow path 31. Pump 31P is configured to be able to send the liquid stored in first liquid storage container 41 in first flow path 31 to the blood purifier 10 side. In this embodiment, pump 31P is configured to be able to send the liquid in both directions. In other words, pump 31P is configured to be able to send the liquid in first flow path 31 from the blood purifier 10 side to the first liquid storage container 41 side.

[0017] The supply flow path is connected to the first flow path 31 between the first liquid storage container 41 and the pump 31P. The first valve V is provided so as to be able to open and close the supply flow path .

[0018] The drainage flow path 36 is connected to the blood purifier 10. The drainage flow path 36 communicates with the blood purifier 10. One end of the drainage flow path 36 communicates with the second section 12. The drainage flow path 36 is where the drainage LD discharged from the blood purifier 10 flows. Finally, the drainage LD is discharged from the other end of the drainage flow path 36 to outside the circuit system of the blood purification apparatus 1. The second valve 36V is provided so as to be able to open and close the drainage flow path 36.

[0019] One end of the branch flow path 38 is connected to the supply flow path 35 between the first valve 35V and the supply source 45. The other end of the branch flow path 38 is connected to the blood purifier 10. The branch flow path 38 is connected to the blood purifier 10. The branch flow path 38 is connected to the second section 12. The branch valve 38V is provided so as to be able to open and close the branch flow path 38.

[0020] The first reservoir 41 is connected to the end of the first flow path 31 opposite to the blood purifier 10 side. It is preferable that the first flow path 31 is connected to the lower end of the first reservoir 41.

[0021] The first liquid storage container 41 is configured to be able to store at least the first liquid L1. The first liquid storage container 41 is configured so that the internal pressure can be positive in terms of gauge pressure. The first liquid storage container 41 may be a hard container whose volume does not change, or a soft bag whose volume can change. However, if the first liquid storage container 41 is a soft bag, it is configured so that the internal pressure increases when the first liquid storage container 41 reaches a predetermined volume or more. The first liquid storage container 41 may be a double container. Specifically, the first liquid storage container 41 may include a soft inner bag and a hard outer container. The first liquid L1 is stored in the inner bag. The inner bag may have a variable volume. The outer container may cover at least the liquid storage portion of the inner bag and have a variable volume. When the inner bag expands until its volume is approximately the same as the volume of the outer container, the internal pressure can become positive in terms of gauge pressure.

[0022] The supply source 45 is connected to an end of the supply flow path 35 on the opposite side to the first flow path 31. The supply source 45 stores the first liquid L1. The supply source 45 may be a container such as a soft bag.

[0023] The pressure gauge 51 is attached to the first liquid storage container 41. The pressure gauge 51 measures the internal pressure of the first liquid storage container 41. The pressure gauge 51 measures the air pressure inside the first liquid storage container 41 as the internal pressure of the first liquid storage container 41. It is preferable that the detection portion of the pressure gauge 51 is inserted downward from above the first liquid storage container 41 so that the pressure gauge 51 can more reliably measure the air pressure inside the first liquid storage container 41 even when liquid is present inside the first liquid storage container 41.

[0024] The control unit 60 has a processor 61, a memory 62, and a real-time clock 63. The control unit 60 controls the overall operation of the blood purification apparatus 1. Specifically, the processor 61 controls the operation of the blood purification apparatus 1 by executing various programs stored in the memory 62.

[0025] The control unit 60 is electrically connected to the access valve 21V, the pump 31P, the first valve 35V, the second valve 36V, the branch valve 38V, and the alarm unit 70 so as to be able to control their operations. The control unit 60 is electrically connected to the pressure gauge 51 so as to be able to obtain a measurement value of the pressure measured by the pressure gauge 51.

[0026] The blood purification apparatus 1 may further include an input unit 81 and a display unit 82. The input unit 81 is electrically connected to the control unit 60 so that settings related to the overall operation of the blood purification apparatus 1 can be changed. For example, the input unit 81 is connected to the control unit 60 so that various settings such as the flow rate value of the pump 31P can be changed. The input unit 81 may be, for example, a touch panel of a display or a keyboard.

[0027] For example, the control unit 60 operates the pump 31P and the like based on the value of the internal pressure of the first liquid storage container 41 measured by the pressure gauge 51. The control by the control unit 60 will be described below.

[0028] Fig. 3 is a flowchart showing an example of control by the control unit during blood purification in embodiment 1. Fig. 4 is a circuit diagram showing a blood removal process. Fig. 5 is a circuit diagram showing a water removal process. Fig. 6 is a circuit diagram showing a blood return process.

[0029] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the control unit 60 operates the pump 31P to send the liquid L in the first flow path 31 from the blood purifier 10 side to the first liquid storage container 41 side (step S10; see also FIG. 4). At this time, the puncture needle of the vascular access flow path 21 is connected to the patient, the access valve 21V is open, and the first valve 35V, the second valve 36V, and the branch valve 38V are closed. The liquid L may be the patient's blood and / or the first liquid L1. While the internal pressure of the first liquid storage container 41 is below the first threshold (NO in step S20), the pump 31P continues to send the liquid. The first threshold is, for example, approximately 10 mmHg.

[0030] If the internal pressure of the first liquid storage container 41 becomes equal to or greater than the first threshold value (YES in step S20) while the pump 31P is being operated in this manner, the control unit 60 operates the pump 31P to send the liquid L in the first flow path 31 from the first liquid storage container 41 side to the blood purifier 10 side (step S30, see also FIG. 5). In conjunction with this control, the access valve 21V is closed and the second valve 36V is opened. While the internal pressure of the first liquid storage container 41 exceeds the second threshold value (NO in step S40), the pump 31P continues to send the liquid. The second threshold value may be, for example, substantially 0 mmHg or approximately 0.5 mmHg. While the pump 31P is being operated as described above, after a certain period of time has elapsed, the access valve 21V is opened and the second valve 36V is closed (see FIG. 6).

[0031] Furthermore, if the internal pressure of the first reservoir 41 becomes equal to or lower than the second threshold value while the pump 31P is being operated in this manner (YES in step S40), the control unit 60 stops the operation of the pump 31P (step S50, see also FIG. 6). In this embodiment, the above control allows blood purification of the patient to be performed.

[0032] Alternatively, the pump 31P may be operated based on a preset flow rate. In this case, the control unit 60 may perform the following control so as to detect whether the liquid L is flowing at a desired flow rate.

[0033] 7 is a flowchart showing another example of control by the control unit during blood purification in embodiment 1. As shown in FIG. 7, in step S10, the pump 31P may pump the liquid L based on a preset flow rate setting value. In this case, the pump 31P continues to operate until a predetermined time has elapsed since operation (NO in step S11). Then, after the predetermined time has elapsed since operation (YES in step S11), if the internal pressure value is equal to or greater than the first threshold value (YES in step S20), the process proceeds to step S30.

[0034] On the other hand, if the internal pressure value of the first liquid storage container 41 is less than the first threshold value (NO in step S20) and the first period has elapsed since the pump 31P was operated to send the liquid L in the first flow path 31 from the blood purifier 10 side to the first liquid storage container 41 side (YES in step S21), the control unit 60 causes the alarm unit 70 to issue an alarm (step S22). Thereafter, the pump may be stopped (step S50).

[0035] Also, in step S30, pump 31P may pump liquid L based on a preset flow rate setting value. In this case, pump 31P continues to operate until a predetermined time has elapsed since operation (NO in step S31). Then, after the predetermined time has elapsed since operation (YES in step S31), if the internal pressure value is equal to or greater than the first threshold value (YES in step S40), the process proceeds to step S50.

[0036] On the other hand, if the value of the internal pressure of the first liquid storage container 41 is equal to or greater than the second threshold value (NO in step S41) and a second period has elapsed since the pump 31P was operated to send the liquid L in the first flow path 31 from the first liquid storage container 41 side to the blood purifier 10 side (YES in step S41), the control unit 60 causes the alarm unit 70 to issue an alarm (step S42). Thereafter, the pump may be stopped (step S50). In this embodiment, blood purification of the patient may be performed through the above control.

[0037] The configuration of the blood purification device according to Embodiment 1 is not limited to the above configuration. Fig. 8 is a circuit diagram showing the configuration of a blood purification device according to a modification of Embodiment 1. As shown in Fig. 8, the blood purification device 1A may further include a second flow path 37, a second liquid storage container 47, and a second pressure gauge 57.

[0038] The second flow path 37 is connected to the drainage flow path 36 between the blood purifier 10 and the second valve 36V. The second flow path 37, the second liquid storage container 47, and the second pressure gauge 57 may have the same configurations as the second flow path, the second liquid storage container, and the second pressure gauge in the second embodiment described below.

[0039] As described above, the blood purification device 1 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure comprises the blood purifier 10, the vascular access channel 21, the first channel 31, the first fluid storage container 41, the pump 31P, the pressure gauge 51, and the control unit 60. The vascular access channel 21 is connected to the blood purifier 10. The vascular access channel 21 is in communication with the blood purifier 10. The first channel 31 is directly or indirectly connected to the blood purifier 10. The first channel 31 is capable of supplying a first fluid L1, which is at least one of a dialysate and a replacement fluid. The first fluid storage container 41 is connected to the end of the first channel 31 opposite the blood purifier 10 side. The first fluid storage container 41 is capable of storing at least the first fluid L1. The pump 31P is provided in the first channel 31. The pump 31P is capable of sending the liquid L stored in the first fluid storage container 41 in the first channel 31 to the blood purifier 10 side. The pressure gauge 51 is attached to the first liquid storage container 41. The pressure gauge 51 measures the internal pressure of the first liquid storage container 41. The control unit 60 is connected to the pressure gauge 51 and the pump 31P. The control unit 60 operates the pump 31P based on the value of the internal pressure of the first liquid storage container 41 measured by the pressure gauge 51.

[0040] With the above configuration, by directly measuring the internal pressure of first liquid storage container 41, it is possible to detect a change in the volume of liquid L in first liquid storage container 41 without providing a separate detection container or branch flow path for connection to pressure gauge 51. Furthermore, even if first liquid storage container 41 vibrates in conjunction with vibration of the device, the degree to which the value of the internal pressure measured by pressure gauge 51 fluctuates is relatively small. Therefore, with the above configuration, it is possible to accurately control pump 31P with a simple configuration even when the device vibrates.

[0041] Furthermore, the pressure gauge 51 measures the air pressure inside the first liquid storage container 41 as the internal pressure of the first liquid storage container 41 .

[0042] According to the above configuration, the sensor of the pressure gauge 51 can be prevented from coming into contact with the liquid L in the first liquid storage container 41.

[0043] The pump 31P is also configured to be able to send liquid in both directions. The control unit 60 operates the pump 31P to send the liquid L in the first flow path 31 from the blood purifier 10 side to the first liquid storage container 41 side. If the internal pressure of the first liquid storage container 41 becomes equal to or greater than a first threshold while the pump 31P is operating to send the liquid L in the first flow path 31 from the blood purifier 10 side to the first liquid storage container 41 side, the control unit 60 operates the pump 31P to send the liquid L in the first flow path 31 from the first liquid storage container 41 side to the blood purifier 10 side. If the internal pressure of the first liquid storage container 41 becomes equal to or less than a second threshold while the pump 31P is operating to send the liquid L in the first flow path 31 from the first liquid storage container 41 side to the blood purifier 10 side, the control unit 60 stops the operation of the pump 31P.

[0044] According to the above configuration, even when the blood purification apparatus 1 vibrates, it is possible to accurately detect the change in the volume of the first liquid L1 (and blood) in the first liquid storage container 41. As a result, even when the blood purification apparatus 1 vibrates, it is possible to control blood removal and blood return with a single pump 31P, and furthermore, this control can be achieved with a simple configuration.

[0045] The blood purification device 1 further includes an alarm unit 70 connected to the control unit 60. The control unit 60 causes the alarm unit 70 to issue an alarm when the internal pressure value of the first liquid storage container 41 is equal to or less than a first threshold value and a first period of time has elapsed since the pump 31P was operated to send the liquid L in the first flow path 31 from the blood purifier 10 side to the first liquid storage container 41 side.

[0046] According to the above configuration, even if the blood purification apparatus 1 vibrates, it is possible to detect with a simple configuration that the pump 31P is delivering fluid at a flow rate lower than the set flow rate during blood removal.

[0047] The blood purification device 1 further includes an alarm unit 70 connected to the control unit 60. The control unit 60 causes the alarm unit 70 to issue an alarm when the internal pressure value of the first liquid storage container 41 is equal to or greater than a second threshold value and a second period has elapsed since the pump 31P was operated to send the liquid L in the first flow path 31 from the first liquid storage container 41 side to the blood purifier 10 side.

[0048] According to the above configuration, even if the blood purification device 1 vibrates, it is possible to detect with a simple configuration that the pump 31P is delivering blood at a flow rate lower than the set flow rate during blood return.

[0049] (Embodiment 2) Next, a blood purification device according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. The blood purification device according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure differs from the blood purification device 1 according to the first embodiment in that, for example, the blood flows through the vascular access channel in one direction. In the following description, the same configurations and effects as those of the blood purification device according to the first embodiment may not be repeated.

[0050] Fig. 9 is a circuit diagram showing the configuration of a blood purification device according to embodiment 2 of the present disclosure, and Fig. 10 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a blood purification device according to embodiment 2.

[0051] The blood purification device 101 of embodiment 2 further includes a blood pump 121P, a venous blood circuit 122, an air trap chamber 123, a third valve 132V, a drainage pump 136P, a second flow path 137, a fourth valve 137V, a second liquid storage container 147, and a second pressure gauge 157.

[0052] The blood pump 121P is provided in the blood vessel access channel 21. The blood pump 121P sends blood to the blood purifier 10. In this embodiment, the blood vessel access channel 21 is part of the arterial blood circuit.

[0053] The venous blood circuit 122 is connected to the blood purifier 10. The venous blood circuit 122 communicates with the first section 11 of the blood purifier 10. A puncture needle is provided at the end of the venous blood circuit 122 opposite to the blood purifier 10 side. An air trap chamber 123 is provided in the venous blood circuit 122.

[0054] In this embodiment, the first flow path 131 includes a main flow path 132, a replacement fluid flow path 133, and a dialysate flow path .

[0055] The main flow path 132 is a portion of the first flow path 131 that extends from the connection point with the supply flow path 35 to the first liquid storage container 41. The third valve 132V is provided so as to be able to open and close the main flow path 132.

[0056] One end of the fluid replacement flow path 133 is connected to the main flow path 132 between the first fluid storage container 41 and the third valve 132V. The other end of the fluid replacement flow path 133 is connected to the air trap chamber 123 of the venous blood circuit 122. That is, the fluid replacement flow path 133 is indirectly connected to the blood purifier 10. The other end of the fluid replacement flow path 133 may be connected to an air trap chamber in the vascular access flow path 21 (arterial blood circuit).

[0057] One end of the dialysate flow path 134 is further connected to the junction between the supply flow path 35 and the main flow path 132. The other end of the dialysate flow path 134 is connected to the blood purifier 10. That is, the dialysate flow path 134 is directly connected to the blood purifier 10. The dialysate flow path 134 communicates with the second section 12 of the blood purifier 10.

[0058] In this embodiment, the blood purification apparatus 101 includes two pumps 131P, namely, a replacement fluid pump 133P and a dialysate pump 134P.

[0059] The replacement fluid pump 133P is provided in the replacement fluid flow path 133. The replacement fluid pump 133P sends the first fluid L1 in the replacement fluid flow path 133 to the blood purifier 10. Specifically, the replacement fluid pump 133P sends the first fluid L1 to the venous blood circuit 122 or the vascular access flow path 21.

[0060] The dialysate pump 134P is provided in the dialysate flow path 134. The dialysate pump 134P sends the first liquid L1 in the dialysate flow path 134 to the blood purifier 10 as the dialysate.

[0061] The drainage pump 136P is provided in the drainage flow path 36 between the blood purifier 10 and the second valve 36V. The drainage pump 136P is capable of sending the drainage liquid in the drainage flow path 36 from the blood purifier 10 side to the opposite side.

[0062] The second flow path 137 is connected to the drainage flow path 36 between the drainage pump 136P and the second valve 36V. The fourth valve 137V is provided so as to be able to open and close the second flow path 137.

[0063] Second liquid storage container 147 is connected to the end of second flow path 137 opposite to the drainage flow path 36 side. Second flow path 137 is preferably connected to the lower end of second liquid storage container 147.

[0064] The second liquid storage container 147 is configured to be able to store the drained liquid LD. The second liquid storage container 147 is configured so that the internal pressure can be positive in terms of gauge pressure. The second liquid storage container 147 may be a hard container whose volume does not change, or a soft bag whose volume can change. However, if the second liquid storage container 147 is a soft bag, it is configured so that the internal pressure increases when the second liquid storage container 147 reaches a predetermined volume or more. The second liquid storage container 147 may be a double container. Specifically, the second liquid storage container 147 may include a soft inner bag and a hard outer container (shell). The drained liquid LD is stored in the inner bag. The inner bag may have a variable volume. The outer container may cover at least the liquid storage portion of the inner bag and may have a variable volume. When the inner bag expands until its volume is approximately the same as the volume of the outer container, the internal pressure can become positive in terms of gauge pressure.

[0065] The second pressure gauge 157 is attached to the second liquid storage container 47. The second pressure gauge 157 measures the internal pressure of the second liquid storage container 147. The second pressure gauge 157 measures the air pressure inside the second liquid storage container 147 as the internal pressure of the second liquid storage container 147. It is preferable that the detection portion of the second pressure gauge 157 is inserted downward from above the second liquid storage container 147 so that the second pressure gauge 157 can more reliably measure the air pressure in the second liquid storage container 147 even when drained liquid is present inside the second liquid storage container 147.

[0066] In the second embodiment of the present disclosure, the control unit 160 is further electrically connected to the blood pump 121P, the replacement fluid pump 133P, the dialysis fluid pump 134P, the drainage pump 136P, the third valve 132V, the fourth valve 137V, and the second pressure gauge 157.

[0067] Next, control by the control unit 160 in embodiment 2 will be described. Fig. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of control by the control unit when blood purification is performed in embodiment 2. Fig. 12 is a circuit diagram showing the state after step S110 in embodiment 2. Fig. 13 is a circuit diagram showing the state after step S130 in embodiment 2. Fig. 14 is a circuit diagram showing the state after step S150 in embodiment 2.

[0068] As shown in FIG. 11 , the controller 160 opens the first valve 35V and the third valve 132V so that the first liquid L1 flows from the supply source 45 into the first liquid storage container 41 (step S110; see also FIG. 12 ). At this time, the vascular access channel 21 and the venous blood circuit 122 are connected to the patient, the access valve 21V is open, the blood pump 121P is operating, the replacement fluid pump 133P, the dialysate pump 134P, and the drainage pump 136P are stopped, and the second valve 36V and the fourth valve 137V are closed. While the internal pressure of the first liquid storage container 41 is below the first threshold value (NO in step S120), the first liquid L1 continues to flow into the first liquid storage container 41. The first threshold value is, for example, approximately 10 mmHg.

[0069] If the internal pressure of the first liquid storage container 41 becomes equal to or greater than the first threshold value while the first valve 35V and the third valve 132V are open in this manner (YES in step S120), the controller 160 closes the first valve 35V and operates the pump 131P to send the first liquid L1 in the first flow path 131 from the first liquid storage container 41 side to the blood purifier 10 side (step S130, see also FIG. 13). Specifically, the controller 160 operates the replacement fluid pump 133P and the dialysate pump 134P.

[0070] In step S130, the control unit 160 opens the fourth valve 137V while keeping the second valve 36V closed, and also operates the drainage pump 136P. This causes the drainage LD to flow into the second reservoir 147. While the internal pressure of the second reservoir 147 is below the second threshold (NO in step S140), the above state continues, and the drainage LD continues to flow into the second reservoir 147. The second threshold in the second embodiment may be lower than the first threshold, for example, about 8 mmHg.

[0071] When the internal pressure value of the second liquid storage container 147 becomes equal to or greater than the second threshold value while the drainage pump 136P is being operated as described above (YES in step S140), the control unit 160 performs control as follows. That is, the control unit 160 opens the second valve 36V so that the drainage liquid LD in the second liquid storage container 147 is discharged to the outside of the system via the second flow path 137 and the drainage flow path 36 (step S150, see also FIG. 14). While the internal pressure value of the second liquid storage container 147 exceeds the third threshold value (NO in step S160), the drainage liquid in the second liquid storage container 147 continues to be discharged to the outside of the system. The third threshold value may be, for example, substantially 0 mmHg or about 0.5 mmHg.

[0072] When the second valve 36V is open so that the drained fluid LD in the second fluid storage container 147 is discharged, if the internal pressure value of the second fluid storage container 147 becomes equal to or less than the third threshold value (YES in step S160), the control unit 160 performs control as follows: The control unit 160 stops the operation of the pump 131P and the drained fluid pump 136P (step S170). Simultaneously with or before or after this, the control unit 160 may stop the operation of the replacement fluid pump 133P and the dialysis fluid pump 134P, or may close the second valve 36V, the third valve 132V, and the fourth valve 137V.

[0073] Alternatively, the drain pump 136P may be operated based on a preset flow rate. In this case, the control unit 160 may perform the following control so as to detect whether the liquid L is flowing at a desired flow rate.

[0074] 15 is a flowchart showing another example of control by the control unit during blood purification in embodiment 2. As shown in FIG. 15, in step S130, the drainage pump 136P may send the drainage LD based on a preset flow rate setting value. In this case, the drainage pump 136P continues to operate until a predetermined time has elapsed since operation (NO in step S131). Then, after the predetermined time has elapsed since operation (YES in step S131), if the internal pressure value of the second reservoir container 147 is equal to or greater than the second threshold value (YES in step S140), the process proceeds to step S150.

[0075] On the other hand, if the internal pressure value of the second liquid storage container 147 is equal to or less than the second threshold value (NO in step S140) and the second period has elapsed since the drainage pump 136P was operated (YES in step S141), the control unit 160 causes the alarm unit 70 to issue an alarm (step S142). Thereafter, the various pumps may be stopped, and the various valves that were open may be closed (step S170).

[0076] After the second valve 36V is opened in step S150, this state continues until a predetermined time has elapsed (NO in step S151). Then, after the predetermined time has elapsed since activation (YES in step S151), if the internal pressure value of the second liquid storage container 147 is equal to or less than the third threshold value (YES in step S160), the process proceeds to step S170.

[0077] On the other hand, if the value of the internal pressure of the second liquid storage container 147 is equal to or greater than the third threshold value (NO in step S160) and a third period has elapsed since the second valve 36V was opened to discharge the waste liquid LD (YES in step S161), the control unit 160 causes the alarm unit 70 to issue an alarm (step S161). Thereafter, the various pumps may be stopped, and the various valves that were open may be closed (step S170).

[0078] After performing step S110, if the internal pressure value of the first fluid storage container is less than the first threshold value (NO in step S120) and a first period has elapsed since the first valve 35V and the third valve 132V were opened (step S121), the control unit 160 may cause the alarm unit 70 to issue an alarm (step S121). In this embodiment, blood purification of the patient may be performed through the above control.

[0079] As described above, in the blood purification apparatus 101 according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure, the control unit 160 also operates the pump 131P based on the internal pressure value of the first liquid storage container 41 measured by the pressure gauge 51.

[0080] According to the above configuration, also in the second embodiment, by directly measuring the internal pressure of first liquid storage container 41, it is possible to detect a change in the volume of the liquid in first liquid storage container 41 without providing a separate detection container or branch flow path for connection to pressure gauge 51. Furthermore, even if first liquid storage container 41 vibrates in conjunction with vibration of the device, the degree to which the value of the internal pressure measured by pressure gauge 51 fluctuates is relatively small. Therefore, according to the above configuration, it is possible to accurately control pump 131P with a simple configuration even when the device vibrates.

[0081] The blood purification apparatus 101 according to the second embodiment further includes a supply flow path 35, a supply source 45, and a first valve 35V. The supply flow path 35 is connected to the first flow path 131 between the first liquid storage container 41 and the pump 131P. The supply source 45 is connected to the end of the supply flow path 35 opposite the first flow path 131 side. The supply source 45 stores the first liquid L1. The first valve 35V is provided to be able to open and close the supply flow path 35. The control unit 160 is connected to the first valve 35V. The control unit 160 opens the first valve 35V so that the first liquid L1 flows from the supply source 45 into the first liquid storage container 41. When the internal pressure value of the first liquid storage container 41 becomes equal to or greater than the first threshold value while the first valve 35V is open, the control unit 160 closes the first valve 35V and operates the pump 131P to send the first liquid L1 in the first flow path 131 from the first liquid storage container 41 side to the blood purifier 10 side.

[0082] According to the above configuration, it is possible to accurately detect the change in the volume of the first liquid L1 in the first liquid reservoir even when the blood purification device 101 vibrates. As a result, even when the blood purification device 101 vibrates, it is possible to replenish the first liquid L1 to the first liquid reservoir 41 and transfer the liquid from the first liquid reservoir 41 with a simple configuration.

[0083] The blood purification apparatus 101 according to the second embodiment further includes a drainage flow path 36, a second valve 36V, a drainage pump 136P, a second flow path 137, a second reservoir container 147, and a second pressure gauge 157. The drainage flow path 36 is connected to the blood purifier 10. The drainage flow path 36 communicates with the blood purifier 10. The drainage flow path 36 receives drainage LD discharged from the blood purifier 10. The second valve 36V is provided to be able to open and close the drainage flow path 36. The drainage pump 136P is provided in the drainage flow path 36 between the blood purifier 10 and the second valve 36V. The drainage pump 136P can send the drainage LD in the drainage flow path 36 from the blood purifier 10 side to the opposite side. The second flow path 137 is connected to the drainage flow path 36 between the drainage pump 136P and the second valve 36V. The second liquid storage container 147 is connected to the end of the second flow path 137 opposite to the drainage flow path 36 side. The second liquid storage container 147 is capable of storing the drainage liquid LD. The second pressure gauge 157 is attached to the second liquid storage container 147. The second pressure gauge 157 measures the internal pressure of the second liquid storage container 147. The control unit 160 is connected to the drainage pump 136P and the second pressure gauge 157. When the control unit 160 closes the first valve 35V to operate the pump 131P, it also operates the drainage pump 136P with the second valve 36V closed. When the internal pressure value of the second liquid storage container 147 becomes equal to or greater than a second threshold value while the drainage pump 136P is operating with the second valve 36V closed, the control unit 160 opens the second valve 36V so that the drainage LD in the second liquid storage container 147 is discharged via the second flow path 137 and the drainage flow path 36. When the internal pressure value of the second liquid storage container 147 becomes equal to or less than a third threshold value while the second valve 36V is open so that the drainage LD in the second liquid storage container 147 is discharged, the control unit 160 stops the operation of the pump 131P and the drainage pump 136P.

[0084] According to the above configuration, even when the blood purification device 101 vibrates, it is possible to accurately detect the change in the volume of the drainage liquid LD in the second liquid storage container 147. As a result, even when the blood purification device 101 vibrates, it is possible to control the blood purification by the pump 131P and the drainage pump 136P, and furthermore, this control can be realized with a simple configuration.

[0085] The second pressure gauge 157 measures the air pressure inside the second liquid storage container 147 as the internal pressure of the second liquid storage container 147 .

[0086] According to the above configuration, the sensor of the pressure gauge 51 can be prevented from coming into contact with the drained liquid LD in the second liquid storage container 147.

[0087] Furthermore, the control unit 160 causes the alarm unit 70 to issue an alarm when the value of the internal pressure of the second liquid storage container 147 is equal to or less than the second threshold value and a second period has elapsed since the drainage pump 136P was activated.

[0088] According to the above configuration, even if the blood purification device 101 vibrates, it is possible to detect with a simple configuration that the drainage pump 136P is delivering fluid at a flow rate lower than the set value during blood purification.

[0089] In addition, the control unit 160 causes the alarm unit 70 to issue an alarm when the internal pressure value of the second liquid storage container 147 is equal to or greater than a third threshold value and a third period has elapsed since the second valve 36V was opened to allow the waste liquid LD to be discharged.

[0090] According to the above configuration, even when the blood purification device 101 vibrates, it is possible to detect with a simple configuration that the flow of the waste liquid LD in the waste liquid flow path 36 is not obstructed.

[0091] In the above description of the embodiments, configurations that can be combined may be combined with each other.

[0092] It should be noted that the above-described embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative in all respects and are not intended to be limiting. Therefore, the technical scope of the present invention should not be interpreted solely by the above-described embodiments, but should be defined by the claims. Furthermore, all modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the claims are included. [Explanation of symbols]

[0093] 1, 1A, 101 Blood purification device, 10 Blood purifier, 11 First part, 12 Second part, 15 Semipermeable membrane, 21 Vascular access flow path, 21V Access valve, 31, 131 First flow path, 31P, 131P Pump, 35 Supply flow path, 35V First valve, 36 Drainage flow path, 36V Second valve, 37, 137 Second flow path, 38 Branch flow path, 38V Branch valve, 41 First fluid storage container, 45 Supply source, 47, 147 Second fluid storage container, 51 Pressure gauge, 57, 157 Second pressure gauge, 60, 160 Control unit, 61 Processor, 62 Memory, 63 Real-time clock, 70 Alarm unit, 81 Input unit, 82 Display unit, 122 Venous blood circuit, 123 Air trap chamber, 136P Drainage pump, 137V Fourth valve, L Fluid, L1 first fluid, LD drainage.

Claims

1. Blood purifier and a vascular access channel connected to the blood purifier and in communication with the blood purifier; a first flow path that is directly or indirectly connected to the blood purifier and that can supply a first fluid that is at least one of a dialysis fluid and a replacement fluid; a first liquid storage container connected to an end of the first flow path opposite to the blood purifier side and capable of storing at least the first liquid; a pump provided in the first flow path and capable of sending the liquid stored in the first liquid storage container to the blood purifier side in the first flow path; a pressure gauge attached to the first liquid storage container to measure the internal pressure of the first liquid storage container; a control unit connected to the pressure gauge and the pump, The control unit operates the pump based on the value of the internal pressure of the first fluid storage container measured by the pressure gauge.

2. The blood purification apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the pressure gauge measures the air pressure inside the first liquid storage container as the internal pressure of the first liquid storage container.

3. The pump is configured to be capable of pumping liquid in both directions, The control unit activating the pump to send the liquid in the first flow path from the blood purifier side to the first liquid storage container side; when the internal pressure of the first liquid storage container becomes equal to or greater than a first threshold value while the pump is being operated to send the liquid in the first flow path from the blood purifier side to the first liquid storage container side, the pump is operated to send the liquid in the first flow path from the first liquid storage container side to the blood purifier side; 2. The blood purification device according to claim 1, wherein, while the pump is operated to transport the liquid in the first flow path from the first liquid storage container side to the blood purifier side, if the internal pressure of the first liquid storage container becomes equal to or lower than a second threshold value, the operation of the pump is stopped.

4. further comprising an alarm unit connected to the control unit, 4. The blood purification device according to claim 3, wherein the control unit causes the alarm unit to issue an alarm when the internal pressure of the first liquid storage container is equal to or lower than the first threshold value and a first period of time has elapsed since the pump was operated to send the liquid in the first flow path from the blood purifier side to the first liquid storage container side.

5. further comprising an alarm unit connected to the control unit, 4. The blood purification device according to claim 3, wherein the control unit causes the alarm unit to issue an alarm when the internal pressure of the first liquid storage container is equal to or greater than the second threshold value and a second period of time has elapsed since the pump was operated to send the liquid in the first flow path from the first liquid storage container side to the blood purifier side.

6. a supply flow path connected to the first flow path between the first liquid storage container and the pump; a supply source connected to an end of the supply flow path opposite to the first flow path side and configured to store the first liquid; a first valve that is provided so as to be able to open and close the supply flow path, the control unit is connected to the first valve, The control unit opening the first valve to allow the first liquid to flow from the supply into the first reservoir; 3. The blood purification device according to claim 1, wherein when the internal pressure of the first liquid storage container becomes equal to or greater than a first threshold value while the first valve is open, the first valve is closed and the pump is operated to send the first liquid in the first flow path from the first liquid storage container side to the blood purifier side.

7. a drainage flow path connected to the blood purifier, communicating with the blood purifier, through which drainage liquid discharged from the blood purifier flows; a second valve that is provided to be able to open and close the drainage flow path; a drainage pump that is provided in the drainage flow path between the blood purifier and the second valve and that is capable of sending the drainage in the drainage flow path from the blood purifier side to the opposite side; a second flow path connected to the drainage flow path between the drainage pump and the second valve; a second reservoir connected to an end of the second flow path opposite to the drainage flow path side, the second reservoir being capable of storing the drainage; a second pressure gauge attached to the second liquid storage container and configured to measure the internal pressure of the second liquid storage container; the control unit is connected to the drainage pump and the second pressure gauge; The control unit When the first valve is closed and the pump is operated, the drainage pump is also operated with the second valve closed; When the drainage pump is operated with the second valve closed, if the internal pressure value of the second storage container becomes equal to or greater than a second threshold value, the second valve is opened so that the drainage liquid in the second storage container is discharged via the second flow path and the drainage flow path; 7. The blood purification apparatus according to claim 6, wherein when the second valve is open so that the drainage liquid in the second storage container is discharged, if the internal pressure of the second storage container becomes equal to or lower than a third threshold value, operation of the pump and the drainage pump is stopped.

8. The blood purification apparatus according to claim 7 , wherein the second pressure gauge measures the air pressure inside the second liquid storage container as the internal pressure of the second liquid storage container.

9. further comprising an alarm unit connected to the control unit, 8. The blood purification apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the control unit causes the alarm unit to issue an alarm when the internal pressure of the second storage container is equal to or lower than the second threshold value and a second period of time has elapsed since the drainage pump was activated.

10. further comprising an alarm unit connected to the control unit, 8. The blood purification apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the control unit causes the alarm unit to issue an alarm when the internal pressure value of the second liquid storage container is equal to or greater than the third threshold value and a third period has elapsed since the second valve was opened to discharge the waste liquid.

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