Isolated ultrafiltration using an extracorporeal filter to remove isotonic fluid is another treatment option.
Advantages of mechanical ultrafiltration may include:
- Controlled and predictable fluid removal
- Significant sodium removal while helping to avoid other electrolyte disturbances
- Use of a multi-platform machine for patients also suffering from renal insufficiency
The NxStage System One provides a simple platform to administer ultrafiltration therapy as part of an overall inpatient program when diuretics prove to be ineffective.
Risks and Responsibilities
Renal replacement therapy, as with any medical therapy is not without risks. The decision of which therapy and medical device to use should be made by the physician, based on previous experience and on the individual facts and circumstances of the patient.
There is no literature demonstrating that one therapy is clinically better than the other.
The use of anticoagulation is at the discretion of the prescribing physician.