| Theme | Updates on hemodialysis technologies | |
|---|---|---|
| Title | Evolution of ultrafiltration systems | |
| Publish Date | 2014/05 | |
| Author | Kouichi Ootani | Department of Clinical Engineering, Seichi Clinic |
| Author | Naoto Ishida | Department of Internal Medicine, Seichi Clinic |
| [ Summary ] | In recent years, various kinds of monitoring technologies have been used for hemodialysis therapy. Ultrafiltration programs using hemodialysis consoles connected to circulating blood volume monitoring (BVM) systems have been investigated. The programs include ultrafiltration in accordance with BV, based on measured intravascular volume (BV program). Those provide automated control of ultrafiltration with BVM, and BV navigation in which the BV is calculated on the basis of patients’ hematocrit levels. These programs facilitate adequate control of ultrafiltration to maintain a preset circulating blood volume and stabilize patients' condition during dialysis. Maintaining circulating blood volume with ultrafiltration is effective for patients with low blood pressure. It is also efficatious at reducing hemoconcentrations and preventing time dependent deterioration of the performance of dialysis membranes. In addition, it has become possible to increase ultrafiltration levels through the use of the ultrafiltration mode (ON-OFF control of ultrafiltration rates). |
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