The "no dialysis" option
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Updated: May 27, 2026

Surgical Techniques for Catheter Placement and 5/6 Nephrectomy in Murine Models of Peritoneal Dialysis
Published on: July 19, 2018
Fliss E M Murtagh1, Lewis M Cohen, Michael J Germain
1Department of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation, King's College London, Cicely Saunders Institute, UK.
Abstract:
Increasing numbers of patients are starting dialysis who have limited prognoses for 6-month survival. The presence of multiple comorbidities, aging, and frailty contributes to this phenomenon. The rate of dialysis withdrawal has been accelerating over the past decade, and this calls into question the condition of patients who are initiating dialysis. One option is to consider and discuss the "no dialysis" option with patients and family. Patients need to be identified who may benefit from this option, and their medical management needs to be reviewed.
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