Kt/V

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Kt/V is a numerical value used in medicine to quantify hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis treatment adequacy.

Overview[edit | edit source]

In the context of dialysis, Kt/V is a pseudo-dimensionless number; it is dependent on the pre- and post-dialysis urea concentrations, the volume of distribution of urea (roughly equal to patient's total body water), and the amount of dialysis given. The Kt/V is used primarily to quantify hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis treatments, but it is also used in the assessment of the adequacy of other forms of renal replacement therapy.

Calculation[edit | edit source]

The Kt/V is calculated using the formula:

Kt/V = -ln(R - 0.008 * t) + (4 - 3.5 * R) * UF/W

where:

  • K is the dialyzer clearance, the rate at which blood flows through the dialyzer, expressed in milliliters per minute (mL/min)
  • t is the dialysis time, expressed in minutes
  • V is the volume of distribution of urea, roughly equal to patient's total body water, expressed in liters
  • R is the ratio of post-dialysis BUN to pre-dialysis BUN
  • UF is the volume of fluid removed during dialysis, expressed in liters
  • W is the post-dialysis weight, expressed in kilograms

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

The Kt/V value is used to guide treatment in individuals undergoing dialysis. A Kt/V of 1.2 or more is generally considered an adequate dose of dialysis, while a Kt/V of less than 1.2 may indicate that the dialysis prescription needs to be adjusted.

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


Kt/V Resources

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