Background: Hemodialysis (HD) in infants is usually used when peritoneal dialysis (PD) has failed. We describe our experience with HD, outlining the morbidity, complications, and outcomes for infants weighing less than 10 kg managed with HD for more than 6 months over a 10-year period.
Methods: A retrospective review of the clinical notes was conducted to collect demographic information, anthropometric data, dietary history, site and form of vascular access, details of HD prescription, complications, and outcomes.
Results: Nine patients weighing less than 10 kg were hemodialyzed for more than 6 months. Median age at commencement was 9 months. Median weight and height standard deviation score (SDS) at commencement of HD were -2.14 and -0.61, respectively, and at the end they were -1.56 and -1.61. Median energy intake was 96.6 kcal/kg/day and protein intake was 1.66 g/kg/day. Median number of line revisions was 0.32 line changes/patient year. Median central venous catheter (CVC) longevity was 13 months. Mean rate of line infection was 0.14/patient year. Median time on HD was 27 months. Median age at transplantation was 3.4 years.
Conclusions: This case series shows that chronic HD is a viable management option in children <10 kg. Access issues can be minimized with good line care to maximize line longevity and minimize line infection rates.