Hemofiltration and inflammatory mediators.

Hemofiltration used in conjunction with cardiac surgery and cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) was first reported in 1976. Since then, the technology has been routinely used in this context. This review attempts to restate the basic principles governing hemofiltration, the strategies or timing of the use of the technology, and the indications. Particular attention will be focused on the role of hemofiltration in an attempt to reduce the plasma levels of some of the mediators of the Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (SIRS).