Online monitoring in continuous renal replacement therapies.

Abstract

Technical improvements in dialysis equipment for chronic hemodialysis patients has mirrored improvements in continuous renal replacement therapies (CRRTs) for patients with acute renal failure who are critically ill. This article reviews the available types and importance of online monitors such as urea sensors to provide real-time urea kinetic parameters, temperature sensors to target thermal balance throughout each session, conductivity measurement of sodium balance in the dialysate, blood volume monitoring to aid against cardiovascular instability and treatment-induced hypotension, biofeedback systems, and remote dialysis/teledialysis for efficient use of trained personnel.