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Home > Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy (CRRT)

Overview

Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy (CRRT) is a type of dialysis used in critically ill patients whose kidneys are not functioning properly. Unlike regular hemodialysis, which is performed over a few hours, CRRT works slowly and continuously (24 hours a day) to gently filter waste products, balance electrolytes, and remove excess fluid. It is most often used in intensive care units (ICU) for patients who are unstable and cannot tolerate standard dialysis.

What is Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy (CRRT)?

CRRT is a dialysis technique that continuously filters the blood, removing toxins and fluid in a slower, gentler way than traditional dialysis. This makes it safer for critically ill patients with low blood pressure or multiple organ failure.

When is CRRT needed?

CRRT is usually recommended for ICU patients with acute kidney injury (AKI), fluid overload, or severe electrolyte imbalances. It is chosen when standard intermittent dialysis could be too harsh on unstable patients.

How does CRRT work?

Blood is taken from the patient through a catheter, passed through a special machine with a filter (hemofilter), and returned back to the body. The machine continuously removes waste and fluid while carefully balancing electrolytes and acid-base levels.

How is CRRT different from regular dialysis?
  • CRRT: Continuous, slower, gentler, performed in ICU settings
  • Hemodialysis: Intermittent (3–4 hours, a few times per week), faster fluid and toxin removal

CRRT is preferred in unstable or critically ill patients, while hemodialysis is used in stable patients, usually outside of ICU.

Is CRRT safe?

Yes. CRRT is considered safe when managed by trained ICU staff. However, it requires careful monitoring of blood pressure, electrolytes, and anticoagulation (blood-thinning) to prevent clotting in the filter.

What are the risks of CRRT?

Possible risks include low blood pressure, infection at the catheter site, electrolyte disturbances, bleeding (from blood thinners), or clotting in the dialysis circuit. Continuous monitoring helps detect and manage these complications quickly.

How long does CRRT last?

The therapy is usually continued as long as needed — often several days — until kidney function recovers or the patient is stable enough to switch to regular dialysis.

Does CRRT cure kidney disease?

No. CRRT is a supportive therapy that replaces kidney function temporarily. It gives the kidneys time to recover or supports patients while waiting for long-term dialysis or a kidney transplant if recovery is not possible.

Call to Action

If a loved one is critically ill with kidney failure or acute kidney injury, our Nephrology and Critical Care Team provides expert management with advanced therapies such as Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy (CRRT) for safe and effective treatment.

📞 Call us or book an Appointment Online to learn more about CRRT and ICU kidney care.

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