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Devices designed to perform dialysis, a procedure that combines the separation of molecules with different characteristics through a semipermeable membrane (diffusion) and the simultaneous movement of fluid through the membrane under imposed pressure gradients (ultrafiltration). These devices typically consist of three basic elements: a compartment containing the solution to be dialyzed (e.g., blood), a second compartment containing the solution that performs the dialysis (i.e., dialysate), and a semi-permeable membrane separating them. Dialyzers are used frequently as components of a hemodialysis unit or system; dedicated laboratory dialyzers used in clinical laboratories for sample preparation and/or concentration are also available.
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