Gas flow through a membrane oxygenator goes through the _____________ and then the _____________.

The correct sequence of gas flow through a membrane oxygenator starts with the heat exchanger and then moves to the gas bundle.

In a membrane oxygenator, the heat exchanger is designed to warm or cool the blood that will later pass through the oxygenator. This step is crucial, as it prepares the blood to optimize gas exchange during its contact with the oxygenator. Once the blood has been appropriately conditioned in terms of temperature, it then flows into the gas bundle. The gas bundle, containing numerous hollow fibers, provides the interface for oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange, allowing oxygen to diffuse into the blood and carbon dioxide to diffuse out.

This sequence of passing through the heat exchanger prior to the gas bundle is essential for both the efficiency of gas exchange and for maintaining blood temperature within safe ranges for patient physiology. Understanding this flow path is critical for perfusionists, as it impacts their management of cardiopulmonary bypass and overall patient care during surgical procedures.