Dialytic ascitic ultrafiltration in refractory ascites.

Nine patients with hepatic cirrhosis and refractory ascites underwent dialytic ascitic ultrafiltration with intraperitoneal reinfusion of the concentrated ascites. Ascites was removed via a peritoneal catheter and ultrafiltered using a hemodialyzer. The concentrate was continuously returned to the peritoneal space. A mean of 4.8 l of protein-free ascitic ultrafiltrate was removed without adverse effects over the course of the 3- to 5-h procedure. Preliminary evidence indicates a potential role for dialytic ascitic ultrafiltration in the management of refractory ascites.