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Review
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Korean J Intern Med. 2025;40(4):557-570. Published online July 1, 2025.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.3904/kjim.2025.049
- Clinical benefits and future directions of medium cut-off membranes in hemodialysis: a comprehensive review
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Hyo Jin Kim1, Sang Heon Song2,3
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1Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University Guro Hospital, Seoul, Korea
2Department of Internal Medicine and Biomedical Research Institute, Pusan National University Hospital, Busan, Korea
3Department of Internal Medicine, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Yangsan, Korea
- Corresponding author: Sang Heon Song ,Tel: +82-51-240-7875, Fax: +82-51-254-3127, Email: shsong0209@gmail.com
- Received: February 11, 2025; Revised: April 9, 2025 Accepted: April 19, 2025.
- Abstract
- Medium cut-off (MCO) membranes have emerged as a promising innovation in hemodialysis (HD), offering enhanced clearance of large middle-molecules of uremic toxins compared to traditional HD membranes, while maintaining minimal loss of albumin. The introduction of MCO membranes represents a significant advancement in dialysis technology, potentially reducing the risk of complications associated with inadequate removal of toxins. Compared to high-flux membranes, MCO membranes demonstrate superior efficacy in eliminating large middle-molecules without excessive loss of beneficial proteins, such as albumin. The clinical benefits of MCO membranes extend beyond toxin clearance. They improve quality of life, reduce erythropoiesis-stimulating agent doses and resistance, lower hospitalization rates, and decrease overall healthcare costs. Currently, there is insufficient evidence regarding the effects of MCO membranes on cardiovascular diseases and mortality. Further studies are required to assess their effects on patient outcomes and long-term survival. Future innovations in membrane technology, coupled with ongoing research and development, have the potential to enhance dialysis efficacy further, reduce complications, and facilitate the development of eco-friendly solutions. Additional studies are required to fully explore the potential of MCO membranes and refine their clinical application.
Keywords :Dialysis membrane; Hemodialysis; Dialyzer; Medium cut-off membrane; Renal dialysis
