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Published on: July 28, 2018
A practical guide for ultrafiltration in acute decompensated heart failure
Thom G Dahle1, Paul A Sobotka, Andrew J Boyle
1University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA. tdahlemd@umn.edu
Abstract:
Acute decompensated heart failure is the most common reason for inpatient hospital admission. Most patients admitted for decompensated heart failure are by definition diuretic-resistant. The therapeutic objective for these patients is volume and sodium removal and restoration of diuretic sensitivity. In a significant proportion of patients, this objective is not met, subjecting patients to readmission for recurrent heart failure decompensation. Ultrafiltration therapy offers the potential of greater volume and sodium removal as compared with conventional therapies in a more expeditious manner. Ultrafiltration can be safely and effectively accomplished in a non-intensive care setting but relies on earlier discharge with reduced readmission rates to be economically feasible. This paper reviews the current data regarding ultrafiltration therapy and provides a practical guide to patient selection, implementation and management of this therapy.
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