Related Experiment Videos
Radiocontrast removal by dialysis membranes
1Division of Nephrology, Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington, D.C.
Blood Purification
|January 11, 1991
Summary
Polyacrylonitrile (PAN) dialyzers demonstrate superior radiocontrast agent (RCA) removal compared to cuprophane dialyzers and polysulfone hemofilters. PAN membranes facilitate higher RCA clearance, especially under increased transmembrane pressure, indicating their efficiency in RCA removal during dialysis.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Biomaterials Science
- Medical Device Engineering
Background:
- Radiocontrast agents (RCAs) are used in medical imaging but require removal from the body.
- Dialysis membranes play a crucial role in the clearance of various substances, including RCAs.
- Understanding membrane characteristics is essential for optimizing RCA removal efficiency.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of different membrane materials (cuprophane, polyacrylonitrile (PAN), polysulfone) on radiocontrast mass transfer.
- To evaluate the in vitro clearances of specific RCAs (Renografin, Hexabrix) using various dialysis and hemofiltration devices.
- To determine the influence of transmembrane pressure and perfusate flow rate on RCA removal.
Main Methods:
- In vitro clearance studies were conducted using cuprophane and PAN dialyzers, and a polysulfone hemofilter.
- A perfusate containing urea and either Renografin or Hexabrix was pumped through the devices at controlled flow rates and temperatures.
- Transmembrane pressure was varied (0-300 mm Hg) for dialyzers, and perfusate flow rates (50-150 ml/min) for the hemofilter. RCA concentrations were measured using fluorescent excitation analysis.
Main Results:
- Polyacrylonitrile (PAN) dialyzers showed 1.5-3 times higher RCA clearance than cuprophane dialyzers.
- Increased transmembrane pressure led to significant ultrafiltration and enhanced RCA clearance with PAN membranes.
- Polysulfone hemofilters exhibited lower RCA clearance compared to cuprophane dialyzers due to limited surface area and lack of diffusive transport.
Conclusions:
- Polyacrylonitrile (PAN) dialyzers are more efficient for radiocontrast agent removal than cuprophane dialyzers.
- Polysulfone hemofilters demonstrated less efficient RCA clearance compared to both types of dialyzers.
- Membrane characteristics, particularly material and pore structure, significantly influence radiocontrast agent mass transfer during extracorporeal therapies.