What is the maximum flow rate that the Warrior lite AC supports?

The Compact Disposable Unit (CDU) cannot control nor impact the flow; it should be viewed as merely a smart line extension, especially since it has the same internal diameter of your standard fluid/blood tubing. Your actual flow rates will be dictated by multiple factors such as fluid type (WB, RBC, plasma, clear fluids), the infusion method (e.g. gravity, pressure bag, electrical pump, hand pump, syringe, push-pull, LifeFlow, etc.), the access type (IO, IV, Central, etc.), the patient’s physiology, the donor characteristics, the catheter size, and the line setup (the use of additional filters, extensions, J-loops, L-shape connectors, needleless connectors, etc.).

Based on the above, instead of using the term “flow rate” (which we do not control) we prefer to use the term “delivery rate” (which we fully control) to describe the warming ability of each of our various configurations.

The maximum delivery rate for cold-stored blood (i.e., 4°C input) for the Warrior lite AC configuration is 180mL/min. For room temperature fluids (i.e., 20°C input), 270mL/min can be reasonably expected.

If the flow rates exceed the capacity of the system, the system will continue warming to the best of its capabilities yet set temperature may not be reached. In such a case, appropriate indication will be provided to the user.

Finally, it should be noted that several additional factors may impact delivery rate, such as ambient temperature, fluid input temperature, and more.