Is Dialyzer Reuse In Reprocessing Machines Safe? Is It Worth The Risk? Let’s Check It Out

By Author: Sandor
Total Articles: 3
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Dialyzer reuse has been implemented since 1960s with the same dialyzer being reused for many hemodialysis procedures. Although dialyzer reuse in the United States and in Europe has been steadily decreasing since the end of the 1990s, it remains widespread in most developing countries.

What does it involve?

Dialyzer reuse includes a complex multistep process involving rinsing, cleaning, performance testing and disinfection before reuse. The process entails the use of potentially harmful cleaning and germicidal agents, and unintentional contact with them may present health risks for both patients and personnel. Gram-negative bacteria outbreaks have also been reported. Chronic inflammation can happen because of even a low exposure to toxins and microbiological contaminants.

No randomized-controlled tests compare single use versus reuse techniques, despite these potential dangers, and there is an inconsistency in evidence from observational studies as well.

Despite existing evidence, the widespread consensus that the reuse process is likely safe ...
... if rigorous adherence to the requirements, is based on 50 years of clinical experience with dialyzer reuse.

Need for Dialyzer Reuse

Dialyzer reuse has traditionally been applied to improve the biocompatibility of the dialyzing membrane, in particular in cellulose membranes, and to minimize the risk of first syndrome seen in dialyzers with ethylene oxide sterilization. The wider availability of biocompatible dialyzer membranes and helpful sterilizing processes currently offers these benefits of reuse.

Economic factors still call for the reuse of dialyzers by several suppliers of dialysis services. However, economic concerns worldwide or, in many locations, even in the same country are not uniform. There are arguments that the cost-benefit in places of the world where the expenses of reuse and safe storage are high may be minimal. However, in locations where people and space expenses are low, the proportional cost savings are likely to be higher. In financially stressed health systems or where patients share their dialytic care costs, even marginal cost savings might be beneficial.

A Final Word

However, in the current era of biocompatible dialyzer, the medical basis for dialyzer re-use is outdated and the only reason for its continued practice is the cost-saving potential. A systemic cost-benefit analysis of reuse methods in underdeveloped nations is now essential when any cost savings can have a significant impact on the availability of hemodialysis therapy.

There are solutions which can aid dialyzer reuse and enhance its life to save money on dialysis treatment. You can check those out as well.