Technical Aspects of Pediatric Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy

Abstract The challenges that face pediatric or neonatal patients that develop oliguric acute kidney injury are complex. This is particularly true in pediatric/neonatal patients that are hemodynamically unstable thereby rendering acute hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis non-optimal treatment modalities. While equipment for adult patients is often readily available, pediatric/neonatal patients need special consideration and equipment adaptation in order to provide state of the art continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT). The following article provides insight on the basic principles governing pediatric/neonatal CRRT, including prescription considerations and complication overview. It also provides key point considerations for effectively introducing CRRT into this complex population group.