Hemofiltration during Extracorporeal Circulation (ECC)

Summary

In cardiac surgery hemofiltration can be used:

1. to balance fluids during ECC, especially in long-term perfusion;

2. to carry out open heart procedures in patients with terminal renal insufficiency;

3. to treat acute hyperkalemia.

The model of the 12.5 by 4.5 cm DIAFILTERTM* and the mode of operation are described. The compounds of the ultrafiltrate (UF) are identical with that of plasma water. Particles with a molecular weight of less than 50,000 can pass freely across the filtration membrane. The filtration capacity is 100 cc/min UF (Q blood: 300 cc/min, pressure across the membrane 600 mm Hg and hematokrit (Hkt) 25%).

The technical details of operation are explained. Its general use as well as its simplicity is demonstrated in 10 patients.

Key-Words:

Extracorporeal circulation - Hemofiltration - Ultrafiltration - Renal insufficiency