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Published on: March 19, 2016
Relationship between platelet count and hemodialysis membranes
Rabih Nasr1, Chadi Saifan, Iskandar Barakat
1Department of Nephrology, Staten Island University Hospital, Staten Island, NY, USA.
Newer hemodialysis membranes, including Optiflux, do not significantly affect platelet counts. This indicates improved biocompatibility compared to older membranes, potentially contributing to better patient survival rates in hemodialysis.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Biomaterials Science
- Hematology
Background:
- Hemodialysis patients face poor outcomes linked to foreign membrane exposure.
- Older hemodialysis membranes are biocompatible, causing complement activation, leukocytosis, and platelet activation.
- Newer synthetic dialyzer membranes are designed for enhanced biocompatibility.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of different Optiflux hemodialysis membranes on patient platelet counts.
- To compare the biocompatibility of novel polysulfone membranes with older hemodialysis technologies.
Main Methods:
- Ninety-nine hemodialysis patients underwent blood draws pre-, mid-, and post-dialysis.
- Platelet counts were measured using a CBC analyzer.
- Patients were dialyzed with Fresenius Medical Care Optiflux polysulfone membranes (F160, F180, F200).
Main Results:
- The mean platelet counts were 193, 191, and 197 thousand/mm³ pre-, mid-, and post-dialysis, respectively.
- No statistically significant differences in platelet counts were observed across the different time points.
- Patient demographics: average age 62.7 years, 36 female, 63 male.
Conclusions:
- Optiflux hemodialysis membranes do not significantly alter platelet counts.
- These findings suggest enhanced biocompatibility of newer membranes.
- Improved biocompatibility may correlate with increased survival rates for hemodialysis patients.
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