In Vitro Characterization of the RP-6 Dialyzer: Co-Current and Counter-Current Clearance as a Function of Ultrafiltration

Abstract

Analytical and graphical techniques are described for presenting clearance data as a function of ultrafiltration; thus for the first time comparison of clearance values between dialyzers can be made unambiguously. This simple method uses a hand calculator to determine three coefficients. Clearance has been shown to be accurately described by the equation C = α₁ + α₂Q_v + α₃ (1/Q_Bi). This formula permits construction of easily read families of curves which can predict clearance values under most clinical situations. The RP-6 dialyzer is characterized by these methods for clearance of urea, glucose and vitamin B₁₂ for counter-current and co-current modes.