Continuous renal replacement therapy

Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy (CRRT) is a type of renal replacement therapy that is used primarily in the intensive care unit (ICU) setting to treat patients with acute kidney injury (AKI). Unlike intermittent hemodialysis, which is typically performed three times a week, CRRT is performed 24 hours a day.

Indications

CRRT is indicated for patients with AKI who are hemodynamically unstable and cannot tolerate the rapid fluid shifts associated with intermittent hemodialysis. It is also used for patients with severe fluid overload, refractory hyperkalemia, or severe metabolic acidosis.

Techniques

There are several techniques of CRRT, including continuous venovenous hemofiltration (CVVH), continuous venovenous hemodialysis (CVVHD), and continuous venovenous hemodiafiltration (CVVHDF). The choice of technique depends on the patient's specific needs and the resources available.

Complications

Potential complications of CRRT include hypotension, bleeding, infection, and clotting of the dialysis circuit. Careful monitoring and management of these complications is essential to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the therapy.

Outcomes

While CRRT can effectively manage the complications of AKI, it does not cure the underlying disease. The long-term outcomes for patients receiving CRRT depend on the severity of their illness and their overall health status.

See Also

• Acute kidney injury
• Renal replacement therapy
• Hemodialysis
• Hemofiltration
• Hemodiafiltration