Ultrafiltration in acute heart failure: Current knowledge and fields for further research

Heart failure is one of the leading causes death in developed countries and remains a significant burden to healthcare system. Fluid overload process responsible for majority heart symptoms. Pharmacotherapy first-line treatment this condition; however, due phenomenon diuretic resistance, drug therapy can frequently be insufficient. Ultrafiltration promising but still understudied procedure that effectively targets underlying pathophysiological mechanisms congestion. The increased availability simplified ultrafiltration devices, especially intensive care units, prompted us perform current literature review on treatment. In present paper, we provide concise published trials ultrafiltration, with brief commentary their conclusions shortcomings. We also discuss practical aspects remain unclear, such as accurate selection patients, choosing suitable protocol proper time initiation, monitoring therapy, its desirable effects renal function further restoration agent responsiveness.