How to Choose a High-Quality Hemodialysis Machine

For patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD), hemodialysis is a safe and effective treatment option. During the treatment, the blood and dialysate come into contact with a dialyzer (artificial kidney) through a semi-permeable membrane, allowing for the exchange of substances driven by concentration gradients. A hemodialysis machine plays a crucial role in purifying the blood by removing metabolic waste and excess electrolytes while introducing calcium ions and bicarbonate from the dialysate into the bloodstream. In this article, we will explore the fundamentals of hemodialysis machines and guide how to select a high-quality device to make treatment more comfortable.

 

Understanding Hemodialysis Machines

 

Hemodialysis machines commonly consist of two main systems: the blood control monitoring system and the dialysate supply system. The blood system is responsible for controlling blood extracorporeal circulation and the dialysate system prepares the qualified dialysis solution by mixing concentrates and RO water and transports the solution to a dialyzer. In the hemodialyzer, the dialysate performs solute diffusion, penetration, and ultrafiltration with the patient’s blood through a semi-permeable membrane, and meanwhile, the purification blood will return to the patient’s body by the blood control system and the dialysate system drains the waste liquid. This continuous cycling process effectively cleanses the blood.

 

Normally, the blood control monitoring system includes a blood pump, heparin pump, arterial and venous pressure monitoring, and air detection system. The key components of a dialysis supply system are a temperature control system, mixing system, degas system, conductivity monitoring system, ultrafiltration monitoring, blood leak detection, and so on.

 

The two primary types of machines used in hemodialysis are the standard hemodialysis (HD) machine and the hemodiafiltration (HDF) machine. HDF machines utilizing high-flux dialyzers offer a more advanced filtration process--diffusion and convection to enhance the removal of larger molecules and toxic substances and replenish essential ions by substitution supply function.

 

It is worth noting that the membrane surface area of the dialyzer should be considered in the patient’s specific situation, including weight, age, cardiac condition, and vascular access when choosing the dialyzers. Always consult with the doctor’s professional suggestion to determine the appropriate dialyzer.

 

Choosing an Appropriate Hemodialysis Machine

 

Safety and accuracy are the top priorities. Here are some key factors to consider:

 

1. Safety Features                                                                                        

A qualified hemodialysis machine should have robust safety monitoring and alarm systems. These systems should be sensitive enough to detect any abnormal conditions and provide accurate alerts to operators.

 

Real-time monitoring is the continuous monitoring of arterial and venous pressure, flow rates, and other vital parameters during dialysis. Alarm systems alerts for issues such as air in the bloodlines exceeded blood pressure, or incorrect ultrafiltration rates.

 

1. Accuracy of performance

The accuracy of the machine affects the effectiveness of the treatment and is usually evaluated by the following aspects :

 

Ultrafiltration rate: the machine should accurately control the fluid removed from the patient.

Conductivity monitoring: ensuring the dialysate is at the correct electrolyte concentration.

Temperature control: the machine should maintain the dialysate at a safe and comfortable temperature.

 

3. User-Friendly Interface

A user-friendly interface can significantly enhance the experience for both patients and operators. Look for machines with intuitive controls and clear displays that make it easy to monitor treatment parameters.

 

4. Maintenance and Support

Consider the capacity of technical support and maintenance services for the chosen machine manufacturer. Reliable support can ensure that any issues are promptly addressed, minimizing disruptions to treatment.

 

5. Compliance with Standards

The hemodialysis machine must comply with relevant safety and quality standards set by regulatory bodies. This compliance is crucial for ensuring patient safety and effective treatment.

 

Competitive Hemodialysis Machines and Manufacturer

 

The hemodialysis machine model W-T2008-B manufactured by Chengdu Wesley integrates the team’s nearly thirty years of industry experience and technology innovation. The machine is designed for use in medical units and has received CE certification, with advanced technology, stability, patient’s safety and comfort, and ease of operation for medical staff. It has two pumps and a precise supply-and-return-liquid-balance chamber, a unique design for ensuring ultrafiltration accuracy. The key components of the machine are imported from Europe and the U.S., such as solenoid valves ensuring precise control of channels opening and closing, and chips guaranteeing accurate monitoring and data collection.

 

Advanced safety protective system

 

The machine adopts a dual air monitoring and protection system, liquid level and bubble detectors, which can effectively prevent the air in the blood circulation from entering the patient's body to stop air embolism accidents. Additionally, the machine is equipped with two monitoring points for temperature and two points for conductivity, ensuring the quality of the dialysate is maintained throughout the treatment. The intelligent alarm system provides real-time feedback on any abnormalities during dialysis. The acousto-optic alarm alerts operators to respond promptly to any issues, enhancing patient safety and treatment efficacy.

 

Based on the foundation of the W-T2008-B, the W-T6008S hemodiafiltration machine adds a blood pressure monitor, endotoxin filters, and Bi-Cart as standard configurations. It can easily switch between HDF and HD modes during treatment. Install with high-flux dialyzers, which facilitate the removal of larger molecules from the blood, the machine enhances the overall effectiveness and comfort of the therapy.