A new therapeutic parameter and computer control to approach optimal haemodialysis

A two-compartmental (intracellular and extracellular volumes) patient model is being employed to derive the time variation of dialysis rate, which is required to meet the criterion that the intercompartmental concentration difference should not exceed the maximum value the patient could tolerate during dialysis treatment. Dialysate flow rate is the operational variable selected for controlling the dialysis rate. The maximum intercompartmental solute concentration difference allowable for individual patients is suggested as a new therapeutic parameter. The model algorithm and a personal computer can be linked with the delivery pump to monitor the dialysis treatment so as to avoid the disequilibrium syndrome and thus rationalise the entire procedure of dialysis.