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Polymethylmethacrylate Membrane Dialyzer: Historic but Modern

Yuichi Torii1, Satoko Yamada1, Mayumi Yajima1

  • 1Dialysis Division, Scientific Affairs Department, Toray Medical Company Limited, Tokyo, Japan.

Blood Purification
|October 20, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) membranes have been a cornerstone in artificial kidney technology for over 40 years. Continuous updates to PMMA hemodialyzers like Filtryzer® demonstrate their ongoing relevance and improved performance in dialysis therapy.

Area of Science:

  • Biomaterials Science
  • Nephrology
  • Polymer Chemistry

Background:

  • Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) hollow fiber membranes are synthetic polymers utilized in artificial kidneys.
  • PMMA membranes possess unique uniform structure and adsorption properties.
  • Filtryzer® hemodialyzers, based on PMMA, have been clinically used for over four decades.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the historical development and advancements of PMMA hollow fiber membranes in hemodialysis.
  • To highlight the evolution of Filtryzer® hemodialyzers and their specific applications.
  • To emphasize the continued relevance and modern adaptations of PMMA membranes in dialysis therapy.

Main Methods:

  • Review of historical data and clinical reports on PMMA hemodialyzers.
  • Analysis of different Filtryzer® series (B3, BK, BG, NF) and their membrane characteristics.
  • Examination of reported clinical benefits and technological updates.

Main Results:

  • Filtryzer® series includes low-flux (B3) and high-flux variants (BK-F) with varying pore sizes.
  • Filtryzer® BG offers enhanced beta-2-microglobulin (β2-MG) removal due to a more uniform membrane structure.
  • The latest Filtryzer® NF provides improved antithrombogenicity and maintained protein adsorption.
  • Numerous reports confirm benefits for patients, including reduced pruritus and improved nutrition.

Conclusions:

  • PMMA hollow fiber membranes represent a historic yet continuously evolving technology in hemodialysis.
  • The Filtryzer® series demonstrates ongoing innovation in membrane design to meet contemporary dialysis needs.
  • PMMA membranes remain a vital component in modern dialysis therapy, offering a balance of performance and established clinical utility.
Keywords:
AdsorptionFiltryzerPatient-reported outcomesPolymethylmethacrylatePolymethylmethacrylate hollow fiber membrane

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