Waterless Dialysis System

"Early and effective hemodialysis can decrease mortality of trauma patients with acute renal failure, but current technology is not easily deployed in the field or during transit of patients. The "Redy" machine using the Sorb column was portable andutilized only 6 liters of water but did not make dialysis more automated or intrinsically safer. The SHD now being developed by Ash Medical utilizes the Sorb column and includes pressure-actuated blood pumping, single- or dual-lumen operation, an automaticsorbent saturation monitor and completely automated fluid management to make dialysis simpler and safer. In this project we will modify the SHD to meet requirements of a field-deployable and portable dialysis machine (the WDS) by including: one liter oftap water as dialysate, volumetric ultrafiltration insensitive to machine motion, visual/automatic saturation monitor, and variable bicarbonate buffering. In Phase I we will construct a prototype WDS and demonstrate that hydraulic and chemical function aresuitable for rapid treatment of acute renal failure patients. In Phase II we will finalize the design of a sturdy, lightweight and small WDS machine and demonstrate that the system can also be utilized for CRRT. The WDS could be life-saving in treatment oftrauma causalities with renal failure. Potential commercial application include military and natural disaster trauma victims. WDS (Waterless Dialysis System) concepts may improve the curre