Biomembretics provides a disposable microfluidic membrane filter that replaces standard ECMO filters, delivering uniform low-shear blood flow that reduces hemolysis and clotting while improving oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange. The plug‑and‑play component integrates with existing ECMO systems, helping hospitals lower complication costs and enhance patient outcomes.
Funding
Funding not disclosed
Founders
Product
Problem
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) devices use artificial filters that create non‑uniform, high‑shear blood flow, leading to significant blood damage and clot formation. These complications limit the safety, efficacy, and broader adoption of ECMO for patients with acute lung failure.
Solution
Biomembretics offers a biomimetic microfluidic membrane filter that replaces the conventional ECMO filter. The disposable membrane replicates the three‑dimensional branching architecture of human lung capillaries, producing uniform, low‑shear blood flow that minimizes hemolysis and thrombosis. By improving oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange efficiency, the membrane enhances patient survival while reducing the need for intensive monitoring and anticoagulation management. The technology is delivered as a compact, plug‑and‑play component that integrates seamlessly with existing ECMO systems, enabling hospitals to treat more patients with lower complication‑related costs.
Target Audience
Primary customers are hospitals and intensive care units that operate ECMO programs, as well as medical device manufacturers seeking to upgrade their artificial lung platforms.
Features
- Patented 3D microfluidic channel design that mimics natural pulmonary blood circuitry
- Hemocompatible surface that reduces shear stress and clot formation during extracorporeal circulation
- Enhanced gas exchange efficiency for oxygen and carbon dioxide compared with standard ECMO filters
- Disposable, compact form factor that fits into current ECMO devices without hardware modification
- Computationally optimized fabrication process ensuring consistent performance across batches