| Theme |
Reconsideration of standard hemodialysis: What is the optimal prescription and management for each patient? |
| Title |
Home hemodialysis in Japan: the past, present and future |
| Author |
Ikuto Masakane |
Global CKD Management Division, Yabuki Hospital |
| [ Summary ] |
The history of home hemodialysis dates back to 1968 at Nagoya in Japan. However, only 684 patients underwent home hemodialysis at the end of 2017, and this treatment was performed in only 0.2 % of all patients undergoing dialysis in Japan. Home hemodialysis could improve patients' quality of life and also reduce the financial burden of chronic dialysis therapy. Encouraging patient independence and self-responsibility are essential for successful home hemodialysis, and these factors constitute the core concepts of medicine in the 21st century. It is necessary to resolve the issues that interfere with widespread use of home hemodialysis in Japan to ensure that this approach is promoted throughout the country. |