Dialyzer

Dialyzer is a medical device that performs the function of a human kidney by filtering waste and excess water from the blood. It is primarily used in dialysis, a treatment for patients with kidney failure.

Overview

A dialyzer consists of thousands of tiny synthetic hollow fibers. The blood flows through these fibers, and a dialysate, or special dialysis fluid, flows around the outside of the fibers. The waste products in the blood pass through the walls of the fibers and into the dialysate.

Types of Dialyzers

There are two main types of dialyzers: high-flux and low-flux.

• High-flux dialyzers have larger pores and allow more substances to pass through. They are often used in hemodialysis treatments that are done more frequently.

• Low-flux dialyzers have smaller pores and allow fewer substances to pass through. They are often used in treatments that are done three times a week.

Dialyzer Reuse

Some dialysis centers reuse dialyzers by cleaning and disinfecting them after each treatment. This practice is controversial because of the potential for cross-contamination and decreased effectiveness of the dialyzer.

See Also

• Hemodialysis
• Kidney failure
• Dialysis

References

Dialyzer Resources
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