Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 5, 2026

A Retrograde Implantation Approach for Peritoneal Dialysis Catheter Placement in Mice
Published on: July 20, 2022
Early dialysis in Britain: Leeds and beyond
John H Turney1, Christopher R Blagg, John V Pickstone
1Centre for the History of Science Technology and Medicine, Manchester University, Manchester, UK. john.turney35@googlemail.com
Dialysis for acute kidney failure was not widely adopted in Britain initially. It was later re-established in Leeds in 1956, following a decade focused on defining kidney failure and conservative treatments.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Medical History
Background:
- Early clinical trials of dialysis in Britain did not result in widespread treatment adoption, mirroring experiences in other nations.
- A decade passed before dialysis for acute kidney failure was reintroduced at Leeds General Infirmary.
Observation:
- The period between initial trials and re-establishment was dedicated to defining acute kidney failure.
- Conservative management strategies, including scientifically informed dietary regimens, were successfully employed during this time.
Findings:
- Dialysis therapy was re-established at Leeds General Infirmary in 1956 under Dr. Frank Parsons.
- The study examines the factors influencing the initiation of dialysis in Leeds and its early development within the national medical context.
Implications:
- Understanding the historical context of dialysis implementation is crucial for current renal replacement therapy strategies.
- The evolution of acute kidney failure treatment highlights the importance of both technological advancements and evolving medical understanding.
Related Concept Videos
Hemodialysis I: Introduction
Dialysis
Acute kidney injury develops suddenly and can be caused by pre-renal causes (e.g., hypovolemia, shock), intrinsic renal causes (e.g., acute tubular necrosis), or post-renal causes (e.g., urinary obstruction). In contrast, chronic renal failure progresses gradually over time and is often...
Dialysis
Extracorporeal Removal of Drugs: Peritoneal Dialysis and Hemodialysis
Hemodialysis II: Procedure and Complications
Hemodialysis III: Nursing Management

