Veterinary hemodialysis: Advances in management and technology

Abstract

HD can be a life-saving intervention for dogs and cats with severe acute uremia. The metabolic stability provided by this treatment modality can afford the clinician time to diagnose the underlying etiology of the renal dysfunction and thus provide clients with improved prognostic data. HD can also extend the life of patients with end-stage renal disease that cannot be adequately managed with conventional means, giving clients time to adjust to a terminal diagnosis, to prepare for chronic dialysis therapy, or to condition a pet for renal transplantation. Dialysis can also effectively manage refractory states of volume overload and can expediently remove many toxins and pharmacologic agents from the bloodstream. Veterinary HD referral centers are currently available in California, New York, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania. © 2004 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.