Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy

Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy (CRRT)

Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy (CRRT) is a method of treatment that is used to remove fluids, electrolytes and metabolic wastes from the blood of patients who have acute or chronic kidney failure. This therapy is used to help in the management of fluid and electrolyte equilibrium, acid-base balance, and nutrition management in patients who are too ill to tolerate changes in established renal replacement therapies.

CRRT is typically used in intensive care settings and uses slow dialysis rates to reduce the risk of fluid overload. Since it removes wastes more slowly, it helps to minimize potential damage to the kidneys, which helps preserve existing kidney function.

Types of CRRT

There are two main types of CRRT: intermittent and continuous. Intermittent CRRT uses a device to continuously filter the blood over multiple treatments a day as needed. Continuous CRRT is when the machine is left on and it continually filters the blood until the treatment is stopped.

Benefits

• Reduces potential damage to the kidneys
• Preserves existing kidney function
• Increases the amount of time spent in intensive care
• Reduces the number of treatment sessions needed
• Provides better control of fluid, electrolyte and waste levels
• Reduced risk of complications such as infection
• Allows for more flexibility in choice of dialysis treatment
• Provides access for additional medications and nutrition

Risks

There are some risks associated with CRRT, including an increased risk of infection and bleeding, as well as the possibility of transfusion reactions. If not properly monitored, the patient may experience electrolyte imbalances, dehydration, and medication or nutrition toxicity.