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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
Summary
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.
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