Finite element mathematical model of fluid and solute transport in hemofiltration membranes

Hemofiltration has been modeled with lumped compartment models that provide a good approximation of overall hemofilter performance. In order to model processes within the hemofilter fiber, a finite element model that includes momentum and mass transport was developed to simulate fluid and solute flux. In addition to convective and diffusive solute transport, the model incorporates non-Newtonian blood flow, viscosity effects of hematocrit and protein, and osmotic effects of protein. Simulations have suggested the role of protein osmotic effects as the singular basis for limitation of ultrafiltration, and have quantified the magnitude of back-nitration during dialysis and hemofiltration.