Modified Polycarbonate Membranes for Hemodialysis.

摘要

The objective of the program has been to develop a more efficient artificial kidney membrane based on copolyether polycarbonates. The mission has been to produce a membrane with a permeability of two to three times that of Cuprophan in the middle molecular weight species,approximately 1000to 2500,while maintaining the ultrafiltration rate approximately the same as Cuprophan,and with greater mechanical strength. The objectives have been met and the membrane is under production in 1000linear foot lengths. In vitro toxicology studies have been negative,and the membrane can be produced in the dry state and is heat-sealable. A six-month's clinical study at the University of Southern California (Barbour) has demonstrated that the membrane produces no toxic effects. Studies at the University of Washington (Scribner and Babb) have indicated that patients underdialyzed wherein neuropathy was elicited,stabilized and reduced their MNCV within several weeks after switching to polycarbonate membrane.