Handley HH, Gorsuch R, Levin NW, Ronco C.
Intermittent dialysis is still the predominant treatment for acute of chronic renal insufficiency in the USA despite increasing evidence that slower and longer fluid management therapies are more beneficial to the patient. We have investigated the use of slow continuous intraporporeal plasmapheresis (SCIPTM) as a more efficient and hemodynamically stable alternative means of treating acute fluid overload. In this paper we discuss preliminary observations on the safety of SCIPTM catheter insertion, fluid removal, extraction and pathology in Yorkshire pigs. SCIPTM catheters removed plasma for extracorporeal plasma water removal without significant gross or histopathological changes.
Handley HH, Ronco F, Gorsuch R, Peters H, Cooper TG, Levin NW.
An intravenous plasmafiltration (SCIPTM) catheter has been developed and is proposed for clinical investigation into the alleviation of acute fluid overload by SCUF of the extracted plasma. The system utilizes a unique backflushing technique, high intravenous shear flow rates and biocompatible polymers to minimize protein and platelet aggregation along the filter surfaces. 
Ronco C, Ricci Z, Bellomo R, Bedogni F, Handley H, Gorsuch R, Levin N.
Many patients with congestive heart failure suffer at some point in their therapy from severe fluid overload, and a significant proportion of patients become unresponsive to diuretic drug therapy. In this paper, we propose a new experimental approach to plasma purification and the treatment of severe fluid overload in acute care patients. Plasma can be extracted directly from the patient through an intracorporeal catheter temporarily placed within the inferior vena cava.
Handley HH Jr, Gorsuch R, Peters H, Punzalan L, Cooper TG, Levin NW, Ronco C.
Clinical trials are planned for 2004 to investigate the safety and efficacy of SCIPTM therapy for critical care patients. It is expected that this therapy will provide the same clinical benefits already attributed to SCUF [7] and may reduce hospitalization stays, incidence of co-morbidities and, quite possibly, the dosage of intravenous diuretics and recombinant human erythropoietin.
Handley HH, Gorsuch R, Levin NW, Ronco C.
Future advances in dialysis of end-stage renal disease patients may include improvements in therapeutic continuity and patient mobility. Continuous renal replacement therapies could lead to self-contained, mobile and potentially wearable dialysis units.
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