Ultrafiltration in Congestive Heart Failure

Deals with the pathophysiological mechanisms of refractory fluid overload and its possible management with ultrafiltration. This work illustrates the view that edematogenic syndromes including congestive heart failure should be considered a multidisciplinary field. It provides a reference for the use of ultrafiltration in congestive heart failure.

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For many years fluid overload has been treated with diuretics, and today other drugs including ACE inhibitors and inodilators have been added to the conservative management of edematogenic syndromes. Still fluid overload may become refractory to traditional and even the most recent pharmacological measures, and extracorporeal ultrafiltration may become the only possibility of therapy. This special issue is dedicated to the pathophysiological mechanisms of refractory fluid overload and its possible management with ultrafiltration. Present technology is discussed, together with new horizons and future trends. With contributions by eminent scientists from different disciplines, this issue illustrates the view that today edematogenic syndromes including congestive heart failure should be considered a multidisciplinary field. Providing a most up-to-date reference for the use of ultrafiltration in congestive heart failure, this publication will be of interest to cardiologists as well as internists.