According to a story from Verdict Medical Devices, CVS Health has recently initiated a clinical trial which will test a device called HemoCare. This device is being developed by DEKA Research & Development and is intended to allow patients with end-stage chronic kidney disease or other causes of kidney failure to undergo dialysis treatment from the comfort of their own homes instead of having to travel to a medical center.
About Chronic Kidney Disease
Chronic kidney disease is an illness in which the functionality of the kidneys is affected over time. This progressive disease can occur over a period of months or years and often results in eventual kidney failure. This disease often causes no symptoms at first. There are a number of risk factors for chronic kidney disease, such as diabetes, glomerulonephritis, family history, and high blood pressure. The cause is not known in all cases. As the disease progresses, symptoms such as leg swelling, confusion, fatigue, vomiting, loss of appetite, heart disease, bone disease, anemia, and high blood pressure may appear. Treatment may include dietary changes, certain medications, and, in later stages, dialysis or kidney transplant. The most common cause of death for people with chronic kidney disease is cardiovascular disease, which may appear before the kidneys completely shut down. To learn more about chronic kidney disease, click here.
Improving Treatment
Beyond the potential for improved quality of life and convenience for patients, at-home dialysis also offers the potential for superior health outcomes because it can allow chronic kidney disease patients to undergo the process more frequently. Dialysis is a critical component of care for patients whose kidneys are failing and for patients who don’t quality for a kidney transplant or are stuck waiting for one it is the only real option they have. However, dialysis currently has some significant limitations.
This trial will comprise of ten different sites around the US and is expected to involve around 70 patients. Participants will first be trained in the use of the HemoCare system before beginning the in-home testing of the device. Patients will be monitored for any adverse events and the effectiveness of the device will also be recorded.