Simulated Intervillous Space Flow in an Acrylic Model

Experiments with an acrylic model of the intervillous space supplied by two individual inflow channels gave evideNC.e that mixing of the fluid in both areas took place rapidly unless they were separated by an intact waterproof baffle. However, if simulated cotyledons (moss) filled the two spaces, no separating baffle was required to prevent mixing. It is implied that if the model represents conditions obtaining in the human placenta, each cotyledon and its corresponding maternal bed constitute an independent circulatory unit.