Molecular Adsorbent Recirculating System (MARS)
- Advanced liver support services.

Molecular adsorbent recirculating system (MARS) is an advanced form of liver support for critically ill patients with reversible forms of acute liver failure. MARS is an albumin-based dialysis machine that is connected to continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) to remove protein-bound and water-soluble toxins from the bloodstream. Patients must be referred by a physician.

What to expect during MARS treatment

Connecting the patient to MARS occurs at the bedside in the intensive care unit (ICU). The amount of time and number of MARS treatments depends on the patient’s condition. Traditionally, a patient will need an 8-hour MARS treatment for 1-3 consecutive days. The MARS physician will discuss what to expect with you and your family.

Our MARS team

UF Health Jacksonville is proud to join fewer than 20 hospitals in the United States that offer MARS. Our multidisciplinary team of physicians and specialized ICU nurses work together to support MARS patients from across Northeast Florida.

For referring physicians

Critical Care Specialists trained in MARS are on-site, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you would like to speak with one of our physicians about an interfacility transfer, please call 1-800-223-4878 (1-800-BAD-HURT).

When should you refer a patient for MARS?

• Acetaminophen Toxicity
• Hepatic Trauma or Post-Resection
• Idiosyncratic Drug Reactions
• Amanita Mushroom Poisoning
• Severe Heat-Related Illness
• INR > 2.5 (not related to medically induced coagulopathy)
• Bilirubin > 3.0 mg/dL
• pH < 7.3
• Lactic Acid > 6.0 mmol/L
• Clearance of severe poisoning with protein-bound drugs: Calcium-Chanel Blockers, Beta-Blockers, Amiodarone, Lidocaine, Quinidine, Hydralazine, ACE-I’s, ARB’s, TCA’s, Valproate, Carbamazepine

Follow-up care

If you would like to receive follow-up information about an interfacility transfer, please email traumaonetransfers@jax.ufl.edu.