Renal replacement therapy in patients with acute kidney injury: comparison of intermittent and continuous dialysis

ABSTRACT

Background: Despite dialysis being performed in critically ill patients for more than 30 years, it is still controversial whether intermittent or continuous dialysis yields superior end results. Objective: To compare intermittent renal replacement therapy (RRT) and continuous RRT to establish which is superior to the other in patients with acute kidney injury. Results: With respect to hemodynamic stability, continuous RRT seems to be superior to intermittent RRT although there are no significant differences between the two modalities in terms of survival and recovery of renal function. Conclusion: More severe patients might obtain greater benefit from continuous RRT while the less severe patients might take advantage from daily extended or intermittent dialysis.