Ultrafiltration done post-ECC primarily in pediatrics to hemoconcentrate and remove inflammatory mediators is known as what?

The process referred to in the question is known as MUF, or Modified Ultrafiltration. This technique is particularly significant in pediatric perfusion during and after extracorporeal circulation (ECC). MUF is utilized to hemoconcentrate the blood, which means it reduces plasma volume while retaining the formed elements of blood, such as red blood cells, and simultaneously removes excess fluid.

In addition to hemoconcentration, one of the critical roles of MUF is the removal of inflammatory mediators that can accumulate during cardiopulmonary bypass. These mediators can contribute to adverse effects such as systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS), which can be particularly detrimental in pediatric patients. By employing MUF, clinicians aim to improve outcomes by minimizing these inflammatory components, thus enhancing recovery and reducing complications linked to the inflammatory response.

The effectiveness of MUF in managing these aspects makes it a vital component in pediatric cardiac surgeries involving ECC, ensuring that the patient's overall hemodynamic balance is more favorable post-operatively.