Hemofiltration in the prevention of radiocontrast agent induced nephropathy.

AIM The aim of the study was to investigate the role of hemofiltration in preventing contrast nephropathy in patients with renal failure. METHODS We randomized 114 renal failure patients undergoing percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) to either peri-procedural hemofiltration or saline hydration. RESULTS Contrast nephropathy occurred in 5% of hemofiltration-treated patients and in 50% in controls (P<0.01). In-hospital event rate as well as in-hospital and 1-year mortality rates were lower in patients treated with hemofiltration. CONCLUSION In patients with renal failure undergoing PCI, peri-procedural hemofiltration is effective for the prevention of contrast nephropathy, and is associated with improved in-hospital and long-term outcome.