A case for cellulosic membrane hemodialyzers

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P Ivanovich1, K Rosner

  • 1Department of Medicine, VA Chicago Health Care System, Lake Side Division, and Northwestern University Medical School, Illinois 60611, USA.

Seminars in Dialysis
|December 29, 2000
PubMed

Insights

Regenerated cellulose membranes in dialysis may not cause ill effects as previously thought. Some adverse events are likely due to ethylene oxide, and these membranes offer cost-effective dialysis therapy.

Area of Science:

  • Biomaterials Science
  • Nephrology
  • Medical Device Technology

Background:

  • Regenerated cellulose membranes are utilized in hemodialysis.
  • Concerns exist regarding potential adverse effects in dialysis patients linked to these membranes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the actual impact of regenerated cellulose membranes on patient health during dialysis.
  • To differentiate between membrane-specific effects and those caused by sterilization agents like ethylene oxide.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing studies and clinical data concerning regenerated cellulose membranes in dialysis.
  • Analysis of reported patient outcomes, including hypotension and changes in well-being.
  • Investigation into the role of ethylene oxide as a confounding factor.

Main Results:

  • Evidence supporting direct adverse effects of regenerated cellulose membranes is limited.
  • Hypotension and altered well-being in some patients may be attributable to ethylene oxide residuals.
  • Regenerated cellulose membranes offer a lower-cost alternative for dialysis.

Conclusions:

  • Regenerated cellulose membranes may be a safe and cost-effective option for dialysis.
  • Ethylene oxide sterilization requires careful consideration in dialysis device manufacturing.
  • Lower-cost dialyzers can expand access to life-saving renal replacement therapy globally.

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