Abstract
The effect of dialysis control parameters (dialysate composition, ultrafiltration rate, blood flow rate) on the patient's internal milieu were studied using a mathematical model for the description of the dynamic exchange processes during hemodialysis. This model simulates the electrolyte and water distribution, the acid-base and the oxygenation state as well as the ventilation. The dialysate sodium concentration affects mainly the intra-/ extracellular water and the potassium distribution. The dialysate bicarbonate and acetate concentrations control the acid-base state and the electrolyte distribution (sodium and potassium). In addition, the dialysate acetate concentration has a strong effect on arterial oxygenation and on ventilation. The ultrafiltration rate controls the water distribution between plasma and the interstitial space but also the sodium distribution and the arterial acid-base state. The blood flow rate through the dialyser influences the acid-base state and, by this, it affects the potassium and sodium distribution. The acid-base state is affected in opposite directions when acetate or bicarbonate is used as a buffer.
Keywords
Get full access to this article
View all access options for this article.