By Lorraine Anyango.

Patients seeking dialysis services at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) will now benefit from improved toxin clearance, reduced inflammation, and enhanced quality of life. This follows the placement of seven new Online HDF machines, a partnership that positions JOOTRH as a leader in renal care in the region.

JOOTRH joins Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital and Nairobi Hospital as the third facility in the country to adopt this advanced technology. Online HDF surpasses conventional hemodialysis in removing certain toxins from the blood, offering a more effective treatment option for patients with kidney disease.

By reducing inflammation and improving overall quality of life, Online HDF technology can contribute to a better prognosis for patients on dialysis. The technology also provides patients with greater flexibility in their schedules, enhancing their overall well-being.

During the official opening of a Continuous Medical Education (CME) session for staff working at the Renal unit, JOOTRH CEO Richard Lesiyampe emphasized the significance of this new technology in achieving excellent clinical outcomes for patients.

The partnership between JOOTRH, Triple Biovitals, and B Braun Kenya will bring advanced renal therapy solutions to the region. Conventional hemodialysis often faces limitations such as interdialytic hypotension, stroke, and poor quality of life. Online HDF addresses these challenges by offering a more effective approach to blood purification.

Ms. Victoria Kithinji, an application specialist with Triple Biovitals, explained that hemodialysis filtration combines both diffusive and convective clearance to enhance the removal of middle molecular weight uremic toxins. This leads to improved dialysis adequacy and better patient outcomes.

The clinical advantages of HDF include:

• Enhanced blood purification: HDF provides the most comprehensive blood purification across a wide molecular weight spectrum compared to other renal replacement therapies.
• Reduced anemia: HDF can reduce the need for EPO and iron supplements by 50%, improving anemia management.
• Improved cardiovascular stability: HDF has been shown to enhance cardiovascular stability and clinical outcomes.

By adopting Online HDF technology, JOOTRH is demonstrating its commitment to providing advanced renal care and improving the lives of patients in the region.