Dialysis System for Pediatric Patients

A new dialysis system has been developed for use by pediatric patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis at home. The system has been cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The new system, called HomeChoice, performs therapy overnight while the patient sleeps, eliminating the need to travel to a dialysis center for treatment. The system employs a catheter surgically implanted in the abdomen or peritoneal cavity, which serves as a natural filter for body wastes and toxins. HomeChoice delivers dialysis solution through the catheter to the peritoneal cavity. Wastes and toxins pass from the bloodstream across the peritoneal membrane into the dialysis solution, which is then expelled through the catheter. HomeChoice is specifically designed to deliver a lower volume of fluid to pediatric patients, as little as one-quarter of what adults receive.

The dialysis system integrates software that enables a doctor to remotely monitor the at-home therapy, collect and analyze data, and make any necessary adjustments. The system, which is portable and has built-in safety alarms, is the product of Baxter Healthcare Corp. (Deerfield, IL, USA).

"HomeChoice will help me address the unique needs of my younger patients, offering them a safe and flexible new option for administering dialysis at home,” said Bradley Warady, M.D., director of dialysis and transplantation at Children's Mercy Hospital in Kansas City (MO, USA).




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