Ultrafiltration and convective-based dialysis modalities: new trends and applications for renal replacement therapy in ESRD patients.

economical way of producing an on-line pharmaceutUltrafiltration (UF ) is a membrane filtration process ical grade solution (sterile and non-pyrogenic) used based on a molecular sieving exclusion [1]. The use of for substitution fluid. In this case, UF acts as a ‘cold UF in renal replacement therapy (RRT) has been sterilizing’ process. (ii) The enhanced blood purificareported in various fields including dialysis therapy, tion capacities of convectively based modalities is the sterilization of dialysate and the bloodless access illustrated through the performance of high flux HDF to the internal milieu of the patient. Occurring natur[4,5]. (iii) A high UF concentrates the protein at the ally in the native kidney, UF is the basis of glomerular blood–membrane interface and contributes to passivate filtration, the first step of the detoxification process. the membrane [6 ]. (iv) The blood separating capacity When mechanically induced through an artificial memof UF gives direct access to a protein-and cell-free brane, UF ensures convective removal of solutes and solution. Continuous production of pure ultrafiltrate excess extracellular fluid volume. High UF volume gives simple access to the patient’s ‘internal milieu’. adequately compensated with a physiological electroOn-line dialysis efficacy monitoring is illustrated using lyte solution is the common process of convectiveurea as a marker. based renal replacement modalities [haemofiltration