Cost Effectiveness: Conventional vs. High Dose HD

An analysis of seven studies of high dose HD found that it is cost effective when delivered at home.

Read the abstract » | (added 2016-01-10)

Tags: Hemodialysis

PD After Loss of Residual Kidney Failure

Once residual kidney function is gone, it is vital to address fluid volume, finds a new study that followed 183 people. During the 10.5-36 months of follow up, 65% either switched to HD or died. Their inflammation rates (measured by C-reactive protein levels) were high, as were their extracellular water levels (measured by bioelectrical impedance analysis).

Read the abstract » | (added 2016-01-10)

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Anxiety, Depression, and PD Technique Survival

Among 201 PD patients, those whose testing revealed higher levels of anxiety were more likely to die or to switch to another option than those with lower levels. Other predictors included needing help from a care partner, comorbidities, and low albumin levels.

Read the abstract » | (added 2016-01-10)

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Using Plant-Protectant Resveratrol to Preserve the Peritoneum

Resveratrol is a phenol found in the skins of grapes and some berries that can help keep blood vessels from growing to support tumors. A new prospective, randomized, controlled, double blind study looked at its use to keep blood vessels from growing in the peritoneum, which can cause PD technique failure. Participants (n=72) were given 12 weeks of low- or high-dose resveratrol or placebo. Those who received a high dose of resveratrol had significantly better ultrafiltration.

Read the abstract » | (added 2016-01-10)

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CT Scans Can Help Find Encapsulating Peritoneal Sclerosis

Finding EPS early can make treatment of this devastating problem more successful. This study had experienced radiologists look at CT scan results from 18 people with confirmed EPS and 26 matched controls with it. The radiologists were blinded to who had the disorder. Peritoneal thickening, calcification, and other findings were more common in the EPS group. Some radiologists were better than others at detecting the differences that suggested EPS.

Read the abstract » | (added 2016-01-10)

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NxStage and 2008K@Home Head-to-Head

Compared to NxStage users, those who dialyzed on a 2008K@Home did fewer treatments per week but had significantly higher standardized weekly Kt/V’s. NxStage users tended to use less ESA medication. No differences were found in other parameters, including levels of albumin, calcium, phosphorus, PTH, or in hospital stays.

Read the abstract » | (added 2016-01-10)

Tags: Hemodialysis