• Vol. 39 No. 6, 482–488
  • 15 June 2010

Novel Trends in Haemodialysis: Where Are We Heading?

ABSTRACT

The mortality and morbidity of end-stage renal failure patients undergoing conventional thrice weekly in-centre haemodialysis remain alarmingly high despite continuing advances in haemodialysis technologies and improvements in clinical care. Home haemodialysis continues to be under-utilised in many parts of the world despite the reported benefits. Alternative haemodialysis regimens including longer and/or more frequent dialysis (e.g. nocturnal haemodialysis and short daily haemodialysis), haemodiafiltration and the use of high flux dialysers have become more widespread in recent years as nephrologists struggle to improve the dismal survival figures. Whilst most of the encouraging data have come from observational studies, many randomised controlled trials which will provide more robust data are already underway. This review aims to provide a concise update of the recent and novel trends in haemodialysis.


Despite advances in haemodialysis technology over the past 40 years and rapid proliferation of clinical guidelines over the last decade promoting evidence-based practices, the mortality of end-stage renal failure patients on conventional thrice-weekly in-centre haemodialysis remains remarkably high.

This article is available only as a PDF. Please click on “Download PDF” on top to view the full article.