Twice-Weekly and Thrice-Weekly Hemodialysis have Comparative Survival Outcomes: Study
Researchers have found in a new study that Patients undergoing twice-weekly hemodialysis demonstrated comparable overall survival at two years when compared to those on a thrice-weekly schedule. While a twice-weekly regimen may serve as a viable option during the initial year of dialysis—particularly in resource-limited settings—it poses potential risks that require vigilant monitoring beyond the first year.
The optimal frequency of maintenance hemodialysis remains a subject of debate. In many countries, twice-weekly hemodialysis is still commonly practiced. This trial aimed to compare the outcomes of patients undergoing twice-weekly versus thrice-weekly hemodialysis.
This prospective, multicenter, nonrandomized trial included incident adult patients, with chronic kidney disease stage 5, initiating hemodialysis between January 2018 and August 2021. Patients were allocated to either a twice-weekly or thrice-weekly regimen, and monitored at 1, 3, 6, 12 and 24 months. This trial was terminated before reaching the required sample size due to the COVID-19 pandemic and economic factors. Recruitment achieved 25% of the projected number. Missing baseline factors were imputed using multiple imputation algorithms, then entered in a logistic regression model to estimate propensity scores.
Disclaimer: This website is primarily for healthcare professionals. The content here does not replace medical advice and should not be used as medical, diagnostic, endorsement, treatment, or prescription advice. Medical science evolves rapidly, and we strive to keep our information current. If you find any discrepancies, please contact us at corrections@medicaldialogues.in. Read our Correction Policy here. Nothing here should be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not endorse any healthcare advice that contradicts a physician's guidance. Use of this site is subject to our Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, and Advertisement Policy. For more details, read our Full Disclaimer here.
NOTE: Join us in combating medical misinformation. If you encounter a questionable health, medical, or medical education claim, email us at factcheck@medicaldialogues.in for evaluation.