Residual kidney function in nocturnal vs conventional haemodialysis patients: a prospective observational study

Abstract

Background Residual kidney function (RKF) provides substantial volume and solute clearance even after dialysis initiation. Preservation of RKF is associated with improved outcomes including mortality in patients on both peritoneal and haemodialysis (HD). Factors predicting RKF loss are unclear, including HD modality. Nocturnal haemodialysis (NHD) may result in less aggressive fluid and solute shifts, however, retrospective data suggests frequent NHD may accelerate RKF decline. The aim of the study was to determine if decline in RKF differs between patients undergoing conventional haemodialysis (CHD) versus NHD. Methods A prospective observational study of incident HD patients was undertaken..