[Haemodialysis in children (author's transl)]

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Pediatric Nephrology
• Renal Replacement Therapy

Context:

• Retrospective analysis of 34 pediatric patients (aged 2-15 years) treated between 1967-1978.
• Patients included those with acute renal failure (11) and end-stage chronic renal disease (23).
• Dialysis was performed in an adult renal unit pending renal transplantation.

Purpose:

• To evaluate the technical aspects and challenges of pediatric hemodialysis in an adult setting.
• To discuss medical issues related to chronic uremia and intermittent hemodialysis in children.
• To assess the feasibility of rehabilitation for pediatric patients undergoing dialysis.

Summary:

• Hemodialysis was provided to 34 children over a 12-year period.
• Key challenges identified included specialized equipment for pediatric dialysis and achieving reliable blood access.
• Medical problems associated with chronic uremia and intermittent hemodialysis in children were reviewed.

Impact:

• The study highlights significant technical and medical challenges when performing pediatric dialysis in adult facilities.
• Findings underscore the necessity of dedicated pediatric dialysis units for optimal patient care and rehabilitation.
• Experience suggests that sufficient rehabilitation is achievable primarily within a specialized pediatric dialysis environment.