Building a hemodiafiltration system from readily available components for continuous renal replacement therapy under disasters and pandemics: preparing for an acute kidney injury surge during COVID-19

Abstract

Purpose of review 

The novel corona virus (SARS-CoV2) has been demonstrated to cause acute kidney injury due to direct cellular toxicity as well as due to a variety of autoimmune glomerular diseases. The concept of a surge of infected patients resulting in an overwhelming number of critical patients has been a central concern in healthcare planning during the COVID-19 era.

Recent findings 

One crucial question remains as to how to manage patients with end stage renal disease and acute kidney injury in case of a massive surge of critically ill infected patients. Some publications address practical and ingenious solutions for just such a surge of need for renal replacement therapy. We present a plan for using a blood pump, readily available dialysis filter, and a prefilter and postfilter replacement fluid set up. This is in conjunction with multiple intravenous pumps to develop a simple hemofiltration apparatus.

Summary 

The current set up may be a readily available option for use in critical situations where the need for renal replacement therapy outstrips the capacity of traditional hemodialysis services in a hospital or region.