Clinical characterisation of polysulfone LS membrane for renal replacement therapy

The solute transport characteristics and biocompatibility of a new polysulfone membrane (Polysulfone LS, Fresenius Medical Care, Bad Homburg, Germany) has been established and compared for two different sizes of dialyser (1.3 and 1.8 m2). The in vivo small molecular clearance of the two sizes of dialyser showed an overlap in performance. Neutropenia was slight and independent of the membrane area as were changes in C5adesArg. The membrane induced neutrophil degranulation characterised by the release of elestase alpha1 inhibitor complex with time averaged values over 180 minutes related to membrane area (p=0.010). Heparin activity during dialysis with the membrane was within the therapeutic range necessary for anticoagulation (0.3-1.0 IU/ml), but despite this an increase in thrombin antithrombin 111 levels during treatment was noted. Polysulfone LS extends the range of polysulfone membranes available for clinical use and its performance is such that it may be considered as a membrane for the treatment of patients awaiting a transplant, or in whom use of the high flux therapies may be inappropriate.