Aquapheresis

Dark Aquapheresis machine at work

Aquapheresis is a medical therapy designed to remove excess salt and water from the body. It is primarily used in patients with heart failure, particularly those who have not responded well to medical management with diuretics or those who have developed diuretic resistance. Aquapheresis is a form of ultrafiltration, a process that mimics the natural function of the kidneys by filtering the blood through a semipermeable membrane. This treatment can help alleviate the symptoms associated with fluid overload, such as shortness of breath, swelling (edema), and weight gain, improving the patient's quality of life.

Overview

The principle behind aquapheresis involves the circulation of the patient's blood through an external filter, which removes excess fluid and electrolytes, particularly sodium and water, without significantly altering the balance of other essential electrolytes. The procedure is conducted using a machine specifically designed for this purpose, often referred to as an aquapheresis machine.

Indications

Aquapheresis is indicated for patients with Acute Decompensated Heart Failure (ADHF) who have fluid overload not adequately controlled by conventional medical treatments. It is also considered for patients who experience side effects from high-dose diuretics, such as kidney dysfunction or electrolyte imbalances.

Procedure

During the aquapheresis procedure, two intravenous (IV) lines are placed in the patient's veins. Blood is drawn from one line and passed through the aquapheresis machine, where it is filtered to remove excess fluid. The filtered blood is then returned to the patient through the second IV line. The procedure can last several hours, depending on the volume of fluid to be removed, and may be repeated over several days if necessary.

Benefits

Aquapheresis has been shown to provide several benefits for patients with heart failure and fluid overload, including:

• Reduction in symptoms of fluid overload, such as edema and shortness of breath
• Potential improvement in kidney function by reducing the workload on the kidneys
• Decreased need for hospitalization due to heart failure exacerbations

Risks and Considerations

While aquapheresis is generally considered safe, there are potential risks and considerations, including:

• Risk of infection at the IV site
• Possible changes in blood pressure during the procedure
• Risk of electrolyte imbalances, although less common than with diuretic therapy

Conclusion

Aquapheresis offers an alternative or adjunctive treatment for patients with heart failure and fluid overload, particularly those who have not responded adequately to traditional treatments. By removing excess fluid from the body, aquapheresis can help alleviate symptoms, improve quality of life, and potentially reduce the need for hospitalization. As with any medical treatment, the decision to use aquapheresis should be made on an individual basis, considering the potential benefits and risks.