Hemodialysis techniques for infants and children

Revolutionary changes in the management of renal failure in infancy and childhood are occurring as a consequence of the application of new techniques of dialysis and transplantation to pediatric patients. However, relatively few institutions involved in management of children with renal failure have had the opportunity to accumulate a large experience in pediatric hemodialysis. In this paper the authors present their current techniques which have evolved from the experience gained in the treatment of more than 150 children with renal failure. Although there are many areas of controversy and much room for improvement in pediatric hemodialysis technology, it is hoped that this review will serve as a useful guide to help new pediatric hemodialysis units avoid certain errors the authors made in the developmental stages of their program.