The aspiration to improve the quality of dialysis treatment of chronic renal failure has led to the introduction of new methods. One of them is hemodiafiltration as a form of replacement treatment for dialysis patients.
- WHO IS IT SUITABLE FOR?
Online hemodiafiltration is suitable for all patients in need of hemodialysis, because it practically has no contraindications for its application. It is a step forward in the development of dialysis technologies and is closest to the function of human kidneys.
- WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN HEMODIAFILTRATION AND STANDARD HEMODIALYSIS?
Classical hemodialysis relies on a process called diffusion – the passage of particles from an environment of high concentration to one where they are less concentrated. In this way, the blood is purified from the end products of the exchange, which would otherwise be expelled through the kidneys. Hemodiafiltration combines two physical processes – diffusion and convection. This advantage allows the blood to be cleansed of many more unnecessary substances – both small and large molecules, leading to a significant improvement in the patient’s condition.
- WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES?
Hemodiafiltration offers improved purification of the body from uremic substances and general tolerability by the patient. Episodes of high or low blood pressure during the procedure are significantly reduced. Other advantages of the method include:
- Prevention of the development of dialysis amyloidosis;
- Protection in the development of MIA – syndrome (malnutrition, inflammation and atherosclerosis);
- Better control over hyperphosphatemia (increased level of phosphates in the blood);
- Better results in the treatment of renal anemia;
- Control of dyslipidemia (deviations in the lipid profile);
- Reduction of oxidative stress;
- Reducing the risk of developing polyneuropathy;
- Reduction of itching associated with chronic renal failure.
The disadvantages of the method are related to the maintenance of the equipment and consumables, not the effects on the patients.
- DOES IT IMPROVE SURVIVAL?
According to studies, the application of hemodiafiltration instead of traditional hemodialysis improves the survival of patients with end-stage chronic renal failure. People benefiting from this new technology have lower rate mortality rate because their risk of developing complications from the cardiovascular system is significantly reduced. However, the application of this new method is based on the recommendation and control of your attending physician.