Sepsis remains a critical condition associated with high morbidity and mortality rates despite advances in medical care. The dysregulated host response to infection leads to systemic inflammation and multi-organ dysfunction, often exacerbated by a cytokine storm involving both proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory mediators. Extracorporeal therapies have emerged as potential adjuncts in sepsis management, aiming to mitigate the inflammatory response and support vital organ function. These therapies include various modalities such as adsorption of inflammatory mediators, removal of endotoxins and cytokine clearance using specialised filters and devices. This review explores the principles, mechanisms and clinical evidence surrounding extracorporeal therapies in sepsis, highlighting their potential benefits and current limitations. Key devices discussed include polymyxin B haemoperfusion, CytoSorb haemoadsorption, high-volume hemofiltration and novel technologies such as the oXiris membrane and Seraph-100 Microbind Affinity Blood Filter. Clinical trials and studies assessing these therapies provide insights into their efficacy in improving haemodynamics, organ function and mortality outcomes in septic patients. Despite promising results in certain trials, variability in patient responses and conflicting evidence necessitate further research to refine treatment protocols and optimise patient selection criteria for extracorporeal therapies in sepsis.
Read full abstract