A SYSTEM AND A METHOD FOR NON-CONTACT WARMING OF BAG CONTAINING BLOOD AND INTRAVENOUS FLUIDS WITH INFRARED HEATING FROM REFRIGERATOR CONDITION TO PHYSIOLOGICAL CONDITION FOR MASSIVE TRANSFUSION

摘要

A method and a device for warming a bag containing fluids such as blood and intravenous (IV) fluids using infrared radiations , quickly and efficiently for massive transfusion requirements are disclosed. The method consists of warming of the fluid using the heat generated by a set of distributed infrared light emitting diodes (IR LEDs) placed closely around the bag inside a non metallic chamber. The heat produced by the cluster of IR LEDs raises the temperature of the fluid within the bag from refrigerated condition to physiological temperature uniformly without creating any local hot spots. To obtain maximum performance, the IR LEDs are so distributed within the chamber such that, the bag fills up the space between it such that the infrared radiations emitted from the IR LEDs heat up the bulk of the fluid uniformly. The non metallic chamber eliminates any chance of thermal and electrical shocks and ensures enhanced safety for the patient and operator. The low weight of IR LEDs and non metallic chamber makes the warmer easily hung on the intravenous fluid transfusion stand and easily transportable with fluid bag inside. A set of temperature sensors in contact with the bag, feedbacks the voltage proportional to the temperature to a control unit. The control unit within the device maintains the temperature of the fluid to physiological conditions by adjusting the current flowing through the IR LEDs.