Removal of excess inorganic phosphate by haemoperfusion with composite beads

New composite beads, made by encapsulating hydrous zirconium oxide powder in agarose, are evaluated in vitro and in vivo for the removal of inorganic phosphate from the blood. Phosphate adsorption is rather good and calcium removal can be controlled. Thus, a 250 to 300 ml column is capable of reducing phosphate plasma level by some 5 mg per cent, thus making it attractive for the treatment of acute renal failure. Biocompatibility tests showed that supplementing the standard heparinization procedure by adding some citrate, as ACD, to the extracorporeal circuit greatly improves platelet and leucocyte count. No adverse haemodynamic effects were noted in repeated haemoperfusions of five dogs.