The influence of cuprophan and polysulfone membranes on dialyzer reusability and intradialytic complications

Abstract

The influence of cuprophan and polysulfone membranes on dialyzer reuse and intradialytic complications was examined in patients receiving chronic haemodialysis. Mean uses were 2.7+1.3 S.D. and 2.2+1. 0 S.D. for cuprophan and polysulfone respectively (P < 0.001). 20.8% and 35.5% of cuprophan and polysulfone dialyzers respectively did not survive first use (X2 = 17.4, P < 0.001), and the difference persisted, but the frequency in each membrane group decreased, with reuse (P < 0.001). First use reactions occurred in 9.5% and 3.9% of dialyses with cuprophan and polysulfone respectively (P < 0.001), and the difference was not affected by reuse (P > 0.1), but the frequency decreased in each group (P < 0.001). Clotting of the dialyzer occurred in 2.2% and 1.9% of cases respectively (P > 0.5), diminished with reuse of cuprophan (P < 0.001), but not with polysulfone (P > 0.5). Cuprophan membrane was more reusable and was associated with fewer episodes of hypotension, while polysulfone was associated with fewer episodes of first use reactions. Rational choice of membranes can be made during haemodialysis