Spontaneous ascites filtration and reinfusion (SAFR) in cirrhotic patients.
Since knowledge about the pathogenesis of hepato-renal syndrome (HRS) is incomplete, the therapy is empiric and supportive. While a number of specific therapeutic measures have been attempted, none has been proved to be of practical value. We describe a very simple technique for concentration of ascitic fluid obtained with spontaneous filtration by gravity. We have been treating with this new device 4 patients affected by HRS with ascites refractory to diuretics. We obtained a rapid disappearance of ascites and improvement in clinical condition. The simplicity and the ease of operation make this technique feasible for repeated chronic ambulatory treatment.
D000328:Adult; D001201:Ascites / Q000628:therapy; D001202:Ascitic Fluid; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007263:Infusions, Parenteral / Q000379:methods; D008104:Liver Cirrhosis, Alcoholic / Q000628:therapy*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D014462:Ultrafiltration / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*