Contents



Preface

There is an increased incidence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) progressing to renal failure, as our aging population continues to expand across the globe. Hence, the number of people indicated for renal replacement therapy in the form of dialysis (hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis) and renal transplantation is also increasing. National and international registry data have highlighted the growing incidence and prevalence of renal replacement therapy. Renal replacement therapy is not an appropriate option for all adults. Older patients living with advanced frailty status and a high number of comorbidities may prefer supportive care without renal replacement therapy to achieve a better quality of life in the short time they have left considering their poor overall prognosis. For those who are deemed suitable candidates for renal replacement therapy, there are many facets of care to consider in aiming for the successful delivery of renal replacement therapy – from guiding patient choice and educating patients regarding their preferred modality of renal replacement therapy to optimizing treatment adequacy and managing treatment-related complications, to ensuring there are appropriate levels of caregiver and financial support, and to integrating advances in innovation and technology in maximizing renal replacement

Renal failure may also occur as a result of acute kidney injury (AKI), which could be due to CKD and/or other causes. Renal replacement therapy in the form of continuous renal replacement therapy or other dialysis modalities may be indicated within an intensive care setting. For individuals in these circumstances, there are challenging decisions to make on whether to initiate renal replacement therapy, selection of renal replacement therapy modality, prescription and optimization of renal replacement therapy in intensive care, and at what point it may be in the patient's best interest to

This book provides a comprehensive global update on the delivery of renal replacement therapy, featuring extensive discussion on recent advances within various

> **Dr. Henry H.L. Wu** Renal Research,

> > Sydney, Australia

Kolling Institute of Medical Research,

The University of Sydney and Royal North Shore Hospital,

withdraw renal replacement therapy and consider palliative treatment.

therapy outcomes.

aspects of this topical area.
