Abstract: 【Abstract】Objective To investigate the effects of continuous veno-venous hemofiltration (CVVH) on the levels of inflammatory mediators in patients with refractory heart failure. Methods Nineteen patients fulfilled the criteria of refractory heart failure were recruited in this study. A single lumen catheter was indwelled into the right femoral vein, and CVVH was performed. Blood biochemical markers including electrolytes, urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine (Cr) and plasma inflammatory mediators were measured at 0, 1, 2, 4, 6 and 8h following CVVH. Plasma inflammatory mediators were measured by ELISA. Results BUN, Cr and serum K+ levels decreased significantly following CVVH (P<0.05). Plasma tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), (IL-6) and (IL-8) decreased gradually. Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and cardiac index (CI) were also evaluated. Conclusion CVVH removes many inflammatory mediators in blood, and lowers the elevated blood biochemical markers including BUN, Cr and serum K+ in patients with refractory heart failure. CVVH is effective to refractory heart failure and its complications, such as severe edema, electrolyte disturbances and acid base imbalances.

Key words: Refractory congestive heart failure, Cytokine