title: Machines for hemodialysis.
abstract: Basic functions of hemodialysis machines are described. The paper focuses on essential treatment parameters and safety aspects. The cause of safety hazards and protective systems for amelioration of these hazards are described. With the exception of hemolysis caused by obstructions in the extracorporeal circuit and blood losses caused by user errors machine related accidents are rare. Foreseeable improvements of next generation hemodialysis machines will reduce the likelihood of accidents further. The accuracy of adjusted or monitored treatment parameters that may influence outcome (dialysate concentration, ultrafiltration, blood flow and on-line measured clearance) is discussed.
authors.affiliation: Medical Devises Consultant Köstenberg, Austria.
authors.forename: Hans-Dietrich
authors.initials: HD
authors.lastname: Polaschegg
mesh_terms: D015314:Dialysis Solutions / Q000008:administration & dosage; D004203:Disinfection; D016503:Drug Delivery Systems; D004867:Equipment Design; D017583:Hemodiafiltration; D006801:Humans; D006435:Renal Dialysis / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000295:instrumentation*
chemical_list: D015314:Dialysis Solutions