HEMODIALYSIS VERSUS CROSS HEMODIALYSIS IN EXPERIMENTAL HEPATIC-COMA

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  • 1 January 1976
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 142  (6) , 845-854
Abstract
The effects of conventional hemodialysis on experimental hepatic coma were compared with those of hemodialysis against blood from a normal donor which allows exchanges without mixing of blood. Cuprophan and polyacrylonitrile membranes were compared. Cross hemodialysis with a donor resulted in prompt but transient recovery of consciousness, whichever membrane was used. Cuprophan hemodialysis without donor had no effect. Polyacrylonitrile hemodialysis without donor allowed progressive and prolonged improvement in the consciousness level and the EEG. Clearance of middle molecular weight substances was more effective than exchange with a donor. Preliminary results in man showed total recovery of consciousness in 6 of 10 patients with acute liver failure and coma and partial recovery from complete grade IV coma to grade III encephalopathy in 2 patients. These 2 patients reacted when called by their name by opening their eyes and obeying simple orders.

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