Fully automated dialysis system based on the central dialysis fluid delivery system.

ABSTRACT

The fully automated dialysis system (FADS) was developed as an improvement over previous patient monitors used in the treatment of hemodialysis, with the aim of standardizing and promoting labor-saving in such treatment. This system uses backfiltration dialysis fluid to perform priming, blood rinse back and rapid fluid replenishment, and causes guiding of blood into the dialyzer by the drainage pump for ultrafiltration. This requires that the dialysis fluid used be purified to a high level. The central dialysis fluid delivery system (CDDS) combines the process of the creation and supply of dialysis water and dialysis fluid to achieve a level of purity equivalent with ultrapure dialysis fluid. FADS has the further advantages of greater efficiency and streamlined operation, reducing human error and the risk of infection without requiring the storage or disposal of normal saline solution. The simplification of hemodialysis allows for greater frequency of dialysis or extended dialysis, enabling treatment to be provided in line with the patient's particular situation. FADS thus markedly improves the reliability, safety and standardization of dialysis procedures while ensuring labor-saving in these procedures, making it of particular utility for institutions dealing with dialysis on a large scale.