The oxygenator essentially takes over the function of the lungs.

Oxygenators manufactured by Livanova are disposable and contain an artificial membrane in the form of hollow fibers that are permeable to gas but not blood. While blood flows outside the hollow fibers, oxygen flows in the opposite direction inside the fibers. The gas, which contains oxygen and medical air, is delivered to the interface between the blood and the device, allowing the blood cells to directly absorb the oxygen molecules.