Simultaneous heparin extracorporeal LDL precipitation and hemodialysis. First clinical experience.

Simultaneous heparin extracorporeal LDL precipitation (HELP)-dialysis was carried out at weekly intervals in six patients with end-stage renal failure, associated hyperlipidemia, and a high risk of premature atherosclerosis. Evaluating 135 single treatments, a mean acute total cholesterol/LDL reduction of 31% and 39%, respectively, was found, while clearance of urinary substances was comparable to that in regular hemodialysis treatment. Treatment tolerance was excellent and no derangements in albumin, hemodialysis parameters, or blood coagulation were detected.