Hemofiltration as a treatment for end-stage renal disease.
Patients treated for end-stage renal disease (ESRD) have a poorer quality of life and a higher mortality rate than patients in the general population. In addition, the cost to provide ESRD care is tremendous. Daily hemodialysis programs have been associated with improvements in the patient's quality of life, anemia management, blood pressure, nutrition, and left ventricular hypertrophy. In addition, especially when treated at home, cost savings are possible. Daily hemofiltration may offer additional benefits with enhanced middle-molecule clearance, improved cardiovascular stability, and perhaps a further reduction in cost. Finally, ease of use of the NxStage System One may encourage patients to undergo their treatment at home.
Zimmerman
Deborah L
DL
Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Kidney Research Center, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. dzimmerman@ottawahospital.on.ca