During which procedure is ultrafiltration primarily applied?

Ultrafiltration is primarily applied during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) procedures. In this context, ultrafiltration is used to remove excess fluid and waste products from the blood during surgery. It helps to concentrate the red blood cells and improve the overall quality and function of the blood being returned to the patient after it has been oxygenated and passed through the heart-lung machine.

This process is critical in managing fluid balance and ensuring that the patient's hemodynamics remain stable throughout the surgical procedure. Proper application of ultrafiltration during CPB can also minimize the potential for fluid overload, which can lead to complications postoperatively.

Other procedures mentioned, such as hemodialysis and continuous renal replacement therapy, utilize ultrafiltration, but they are focused primarily on renal support rather than the specific requirements of cardiac surgery during CPB. Transfusion processes do not typically involve ultrafiltration; instead, they focus on the direct administration of blood products.