Biofeedback Control Of Ultrafiltration For Prevention Of Hemodialysis-Induced Hypotension

Hemodialysis-induced hypotension is still a severe complication in spite of all the progress in hemodialysis treatment. Because of its multifactor causes, hemodialysis-induced hypotension cannot be reliably prevented by conventional ultrafiltration and sodium profiling in open-loop systems, as they are unable to adapt themselves to actual decreases in blood pressure. Therefore, it is the ultimate goal to provide automatic control in hemodialysis. Furthermore, the treatment should improve patient comfort and be carried out without use of additional body sensors and without additional medication. Automatic control of hemodialysis has the potential to provide a better treatment to the ever increasing number of ESDR patients who present with more complicated co-morbid conditions.