Continuous kidney support, explained clearly.
Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy (CRRT) is a form of kidney support used in intensive care for selected critically ill patients. Explore how it works, the treatment approaches and the role of careful monitoring.
Individualised care
Continuous monitoring
What is Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy?
CRRT is a kidney replacement therapy delivered over an extended period, typically in an intensive care setting. It helps the clinical team manage fluid balance and remove waste products when a patient's kidneys cannot adequately meet the body's needs.
Because treatment is delivered continuously and adjusted by clinicians, it may be considered for critically ill patients who may not tolerate rapid fluid shifts. The decision depends on the patient's condition, goals of care and specialist assessment.
CRRT modalities at a glance
The method selected depends on the clinical goal and the patient's needs. The treating team chooses and adjusts the prescription.
CVVH — Hemofiltration
Uses convection to remove solutes with fluid passing across a semipermeable filter. Replacement fluid is used as part of the treatment.
CVVHD — Hemodialysis
Uses diffusion across a filter membrane, with dialysate flowing on the other side to support removal of selected solutes.
CVVHDF — Hemodiafiltration
Combines diffusion and convection. The prescription is individualised according to the patient's clinical needs and local protocol.
What does CRRT care involve?
CRRT is delivered by a trained critical-care team. Monitoring and adjustments are specific to the patient, the device and the unit's validated protocols.
Patient assessment
The team evaluates the clinical situation, fluid status, laboratory results and treatment goals.
Access & circuit checks
Trained staff assess vascular access, circuit function and equipment alarms according to device guidance.
Laboratory monitoring
Fluid balance, electrolytes, acid–base status and other relevant measures are followed as clinically indicated.
Team communication
Critical care, nephrology, nursing and pharmacy collaborate on safe, coordinated treatment.
Need guidance about CRRT or kidney care?
Discuss questions and treatment decisions with a qualified nephrology or critical-care professional.
CRRT FAQs
General information to help you understand the treatment conversation.
CRRT may be considered for selected critically ill patients with acute kidney injury or problems managing fluid, electrolytes or acid–base balance. Only the treating clinical team can determine whether it is appropriate for an individual patient.
CRRT is delivered continuously over an extended period, while conventional intermittent haemodialysis is usually delivered in shorter sessions. The choice depends on clinical needs, haemodynamic status, available resources and specialist judgement.
CRRT generally requires an ICU or similarly equipped critical-care setting with trained staff, specialised equipment and close monitoring.
Potential risks can include changes in blood pressure, bleeding or clotting issues, access-related complications, infection and electrolyte or temperature changes. The care team monitors for complications and manages them according to clinical protocols.
No. This page is educational only and is not a substitute for medical advice, device instructions or local clinical protocols. Decisions about starting, prescribing, monitoring or stopping CRRT must be made by qualified clinicians.