Stable Hemodialysis Patients Research Articles

Objectively measured levels of moderate to vigorous intensity physical activity are associated with cognitive impairment in diabetic hemodialysis patients: a cross-sectional study.

The purpose of this study was to observe the relationship between objectively measured levels of physical activity and cognitive impairment (CI) in the presence or absence of diabetes in middle-aged and elderly hemodialysis patients. In this multicenter cross-sectional study, 339 clinically stable hemodialysis patients (210 males; mean age: 67.38 ± 8.07 years) aged ≥55 years were included from 7 dialysis units in Shanghai, China. The Chinese version of the Modified Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) was used to assess the CI. The duration of physical activity at different intensities, including moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) as well as light physical activity (LPA), was measured using a triaxial accelerometer (ActiGraph GT3X+, Pensacola, FL, USA). Logistic regression and multiple linear regression were used for analyses. The prevalence of CI was higher in hemodialysis patients with comorbid diabetes (24.3%). In diabetic patients, MVPA (increase per 10 min/day) was negatively associated with CI after adjusting for covariates [(OR = 0.89, 95%CI = 0.79-0.99), p = 0.042]. However, no significant association between physical activity and CI was found in non-diabetic hemodialysis patients. Further analyses revealed that MVPA was positively associated with temporal orientation, attention and calculation and recall in diabetic hemodialysis patients. Physical activity was associated with CI in diabetic hemodialysis patients rather than the non-diabetes group. This study is important for early differential diagnosis of CI and improvement of cognitive status in hemodialysis patients.

Application of therapeutic ultrasonic waves across the dialyzer membrane: A pilot study on the impact on dialyzer clearance and safety.

Progressive clogging of the dialyzer membrane during hemodialysis can compromise solute removal efficiency. Existing solutions fall short in addressing intradialytic reduction of dialyzer clearance. This pilot study aims to assess the impact and safety of applying therapeutic ultrasonic waves to dialyzers for mitigating intradialytic clogging. In this pilot study, 15 stable maintenance hemodialysis patients (12 males and 3 females) were enrolled. Each patient served as their own control. They underwent one session of hemodialysis with the application of therapeutic ultrasonic waves (Ultrasonic session) and were crossed-over to a second session without the use of ultrasonic waves (Control session). All the study sessions operated at a fixed dialysate flow rate of 500 mL/min and a blood flow rate of 250 or 300 mL/min. The adequacy of dialysis achieved during each session was monitored using Online Clearance Monitoring of the dialysis machines, and clearance K values, varying between 135 and 209 mL/min, were recorded, and plotted. A direct comparison between Control and Ultrasonic sessions was performed to assess the impact and safety of using ultrasonic waves during hemodialysis. The mean percentage decline in dialyzer clearance values was 4.41% for Ultrasonic sessions (SD: 5.3) and 12.69% for Control sessions (SD: 6.35) (p-value <0.001). This indicates that the application of ultrasonic waves reduced the decline in clearance values. The mean differences of the blood component parameters were comparable between both Ultrasonic sessions and Control sessions, suggesting the safety of utilizing ultrasonic waves during dialysis. Microscopic membrane analysis corroborated the safety. Intradialytic clogging of dialyzer membranes is a significant problem that can cause dialysis inadequacy. Our study tackles this issue by introducing therapeutic ultrasonic waves to improve dialyzer clearance during hemodialysis sessions in patients.

#91 Ultrafiltration rate induced cardiac strain (ULRICA) – study. Preliminary results of a prospective multicentre study in Sweden

Abstract Background and Aims Cardiovascular disease is the principal cause of mortality in the haemodialysis population, attributable not only to traditional risk factors but also to those specific to dialysis treatment such as fluid overload and ultrafiltration. These are modifiable risk factors. The cardiac biomarkers N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (proBNP) and hs-Troponin T (TnT) increase during dialysis (Laveborn et al. 2012). Previous studies (Goto et al. 2023) hypothesize that this increase was related to ultrafiltration rate. The aim of the study was to determine if modifying ultrafiltration rate could reduce the elevation of these cardiac biomarkers. Method ULRICA is a multicentre study registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT06153888), conducted in six centres across Sweden. It investigated the effect of ultrafiltration rate in adult, stable haemodialysis patients with a) interdialytic weight gain (IDWG) of more than 2.5% of dry body weight and b) an ultrafiltration rate of over 0.72 IDWG/h (standard UF rate). In a crossover setting each patient underwent one treatment according to standard prescription and, after one week, a second treatment with prolonged UF time to achieve an ultrafiltration rate of less than 0.6 IDWG/h or a reduction of ultrafiltration rate of at least 20% compared to standard treatment. All treatments were performed using low flux dialysers. Blood samples were collected before, after 180 min and after treatment. Levels of proBNP and TnT were then adjusted for haemoconcentration after the formula of Schneditz et al. (2012). Echocardiographic measurements were derived from echocardiographs performed within one year from study start under stable conditions. Due to the small sample size and non-normally distributed values, data were analysed using Wilcoxon signed-rank test for comparisons between treatments and Spearman's rank correlation coefficient for correlations. Results This preliminary one-centre report included 12 patients (four women, eight men) with a median age of 68.5 (range 32-86 years). There was a significant increase in TnT (p=0.008) and proBNP (p= 0.002) during dialysis with standard UF rate. The median levels of cardiac markers before treatment did not differ between the two treatments, TnT 61.5 ng/l (IQR 33.3-87.2) resp. 59.5 ng/l (IQR 35.5-90.0) and proBNP 12177.5 ng/l (IQR 3112.5-34773.0) resp. 9105 ng/l (IQR 2555.3-36803.0); (p=0.906 for TnT and p=0.638 for proBNP). The median increase of TnT was 4.1 ng/l (IQR 1.2-8.4) during standard treatment and 5.8 ng/l (IQR 0.1-10.3) during the prolonged treatment (p= 0.158). The median increase in proBNP was 3257.5 ng/l (IQR 855.0- 15074.7) during standard treatment and 2996.9 ng/l (IQR 724.1-13338.4) during the prolonged treatment (p=0.814). The changes at 180 min were also non-significant (p=0.182 for TnT and p=0.875 for proBNP). There was a positive correlation between the change in proBNP during treatment and age (R=0.85, p&amp;lt;0.001) and left ventricular mass index (LVMI) (R=0.89, p=0.019). There was also a correlation between age and LVMI (R=0.83, p=0.042). Conclusion Preliminary data of a small group of patients confirm an increase of TnT and proBNP during dialysis. Age and LVMI are strongly associated with increase of proBNP. To show whether a reduction of ultrafiltration rate per se might reduce the release of cardiac biomarkers during haemodialysis treatment, further inclusion of patients is in progress.

#1813 Safety and efficacy of reducing hemodialysis fluid flow rate—contribution to planetary health

Abstract Background and Aims Historically, increasing dialysate flow rates (Qd) have been recommended to improve hemodialysis (HD) efficiency. For decades, Qd has routinely been set to a fixed rate of 500 ml/min. A standard HD treatment uses on average around 500 L of water [1], resulting in a consumption of 78 000 L per patient and year with an additional estimated 10 000 L for post-dilution hemodiafiltration. This corresponds to the annual water consumption of 1.5 persons in developed countries and considerably more in developing countries. We investigated the effect of reducing dialysate flow rates on HD safety and efficacy. Method This is a prospective single-center non-blinded observational study. We investigated the effect of a 1:1 adjustment of online Qd to blood flow rate by adjusting autoflow (AF) settings of the dialysis monitor to a calculation factor of 1.0 with a lower Qd limit of 350 ml/min (AF 1.0 mode). We examined the effect on dialysis efficacy, metabolic markers, and anemia in routine biochemical analyses, and calculated energy, water, and waste savings in 116 stable chronic HD patients. Data were compared with previous turnover in energy, waste, and water, as well as with clinical results prior to the mentioned modifications. Results After 12 months of HD treatment with AF 1.0 mode we observed reductions of 10% in electricity consumption, 19% in raw water consumption, and 24% in dialysate concentrate consumption. Conversely, we did not observe deteriorations in treatment quality or dialysis dose (Table 1), nor phosphate or hemoglobin. Conclusion Long-term HD treatment with reduced dialysate fluid flow rates led to substantially improved water and carbon footprints with potential effects on planetary health and economic savings, while dialysis quality remained unchanged.

#879 Impacts on ionized magnesium and total magnesium by the conversion to higher dialysate magnesium concentration

Abstract Background and Aims Hypermagnesemia is detrimental to hemodialysis patients whose renal function is compromised. However, recent observational study suggested the lower mortality rate was observed in the patients with mild hypermagnesemia. Even though the serum magnesium concentration (tMg) of the patients were frequently higher than the reference range of the tMg, one study reported 90% of the cases were within the reference range of the ionized magnesium (iMg) which is a physiologically active fraction of magnesium (Mg) in the blood. This is due to the higher serum phosphorous level in the hemodialysis patients, and negative correlation between iMg and the serum phosphorous, and anion gap. Current guideline recommends Mg level should be managed to be 3.0 mg/dL at pre-dialysis blood test. However, not much are known what iMg level is optimal. This study aimed to assess the impacts on iMg and tMg level of the patients by the conversion of the routinely-used dialysate containing 1.0 mEq/L (0.5 mmol/L) Mg to higher dialysate Mg concentration. Method This longitudinal study was conducted at Shingashi Renal Centre, Fujimino Renal Centre, and Kawagoe-minami Renal Centre. Out of 289 stable maintenance hemodialysis patients agreed to participate in the study, 42 were excluded due to death, changing hospital, or hospitalization. A total of 247 patients who are on regular hemodialysis treatment at least 6 months with commercially available dialysate mixture TA1 (Mg concentration: 1.0 mEq/L (0.5 mmol/L)) were included for the analysis. Dialysate Mg concentration was then increased to 1.25 mEq/L (0.625 mmol/L) by using a commercially available dialysate mixture TA5. Blood tests were carried out on the day of the first hemodialysis session of the week (Monday or Tuesday) before dialysate Mg concentration conversion and at 1, 4, 12, and 24 weeks. The iMg concentrations were analyzed using the ion-selective electrode on blood gas analyzer StatProfile Prime Plus (Nova Biomedical, Waltham, MA, USA). The tMg concentrations were determined by using Xylidylblue. Results Mean age of the 247 enrolled patients was 70.3ion-selective electrode on blood gas analyzer StatProfile Prime Plus (Nova Bidecreased significantly (TA1-pre:2.58±0.36mg/dL→TA1-post:2.18±0.16mg/dL, TA5-pre (24wk): 2.74±0.35mg/dL→TA5-post: 2.44±0.15mg/dL). After conversion to higher Mg dialysate TA5, post-dialysis tMg increased in comparison with TA1. After conversion to the higher Mg dialysate, iMg increased as well significantly (TA1-pre:0.64±0.11mmol/L→TA1-post:0.49±0.05mmol/L, TA5-pre:0.70±0.11mmol/L→0.60±0.04mmol/L) . However, iMg of TA1-post was close to the lower limit of the reference range of iMg (Fig. 1). Conclusion Hemodialysis patients’ iMg level became manageable within reference range by the conversion of the dialysate from TA1 to TA5 and the clinical advantage of iMg monitoring with hemodialysis patients were demonstrated. A slight increase in dialysate Mg concentration from 1.0 mEq/L to 1.25 mEq/L increased the iMg/tMg ratio, and iMg was within the normal range even when the pre-dialysis reference value of 3 mg/dL was not reached.

#2268 Dialysis patients survival in HD centres from Belgium, Estonia, Spain, and Sweden—association with BMI and hypocalcemia

Abstract Background and Aims Several factors are known to influence the morbidity and mortality of ESKD patients, among them cardiovascular disease, nutritional status, delivered dialysis dose, uremic toxins levels, and infectious diseases. This observational study aimed to analyse factors that impact the survival of ESKD patients on haemodialysis. Method We analysed 3- and 5-year survival of 76 patients during the period of 2018-2023 (17 females, 59 males, aged 63.6 ± 15.9 years) from four separate dialysis centres from countries with diverse life expectancies, renal replacement therapy incidences, and kidney transplant rates: North Estonia Medical Centre, Tallinn, Estonia (21 patients); Linköping University Hospital, Linköping, Sweden (21 patients); Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium (14 patients) and Fundación Jiménez Díaz University Hospital Health Research Institute, Madrid, Spain (20 patients). We included stable chronic haemodialysis patients receiving three times per week post-dilution ol-HDF treatment. Patients with central dialysis catheter, acute coronary syndrome or stroke within three months were excluded. Cox proportional-hazard regression analysis was used to detect the factors affecting the survival of patients. In the Cox model, the 3-year survival was set as a dependent parameter. Age, gender, BMI, and serum levels of creatinine, phosphate, calcium, total protein, and uric acid were set as independent parameters. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was performed to study survival in the subgroups of patients. Results Out of 76 patients, 22 died in 3-years and 34 in five years (Fig. 1a and b). Our Cox model (adjusted with the age, gender, creatinine, phosphate, total protein, and uric acid serum levels) indicated patients' body mass index (BMI, p = 0.014) and calcium (p = 0.033) levels as statistically significant factors in 3-year survival. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed statistically significant increased survival in the group where BMI was higher than 27.6 kg/m2 (Fig. 2a) and in the group where serum calcium levels were higher than 2.25 mmol/L (Fig. 2b). Conclusion This study shows that among prevalent haemodialysis patients 3-year survival is about 65% and 5-year survival 45%, and a higher risk of mortality could be associated with low BMI and low serum calcium levels. Our findings are in accordance with previous studies, where survival benefit for haemodialysis patients with higher BMI is shown [1, 2]. It is proposed that this phenomenon among advanced CKD patients with higher BMI could be due to better nutritional reserve that helps resist chronic inflammation and wasting. The negative effects of excess calcium load for haemodialysis patients are well known, and nowadays, non-calcium-based phosphorus binders, calcimimetics, and low-calcium concentrates in haemodialysis are used more often, thus putting the patients at risk of hypocalcaemia. Though less studied, long-term hypocalcaemia is shown to increase mortality among haemodialysis patients [3], as concurs with our results. Safe calcium concentration limits for these patients are still debatable and need further investigation.

Monitorización hemodinámica no invasiva intradiálisis: utilidad de los valores de precarga cardiaca en la predicción de la inestabilidad hemodinámica

IntroductionAdequate control of patient blood volume in hemodialysis (HD) is essential as a modifiable risk factor for morbidity and mortality. In this study, we propose continuous non-invasive hemodynamic monitoring using bioreactance (Starling™ SV. Baxter) and real-time characterization of cardiac preload data to aid in the accurate assessment of volume status and improvement of tolerance in HD. MethodologyObservational and prospective study on the relationship between cardiac preload data and intradialytic hemodynamic instability. Forty-six stable HD patients were recruited. Clinical, analytical, and dialysis data were collected from all participants. The protocol included bioimpedance (BIVA), pre- and post-dialysis echocardiography and tissue Doppler, and monitoring of hemodynamic parameters during the session. ResultsAccording to the Fall20 definition, 24 patients (51.19%) experienced intradialytic hypotension (IDH). We found no relationship between IDH and analytical, echocardiographic, BIVA parameters, or relative blood volume measurement (BVM) values. Regarding hemodynamic monitoring, indexed systolic volume (ISV) was lower in patients with IDH (38.2±0.9 vs. 39.2±1.9; P<.001). Indexed systolic volume variation (ISVV) and heart rate (HR) were higher in the IDH group (14.1±0.7 vs. 13.5±0.7; P<.0001), (70.01±2.1 vs. 68.97±1.1; P<.0001), respectively. Indexed cardiac output (ICO) and indexed peripheral resistances (IPR) were also lower in the IDH group (2.62±0.09 vs. 2.65±0.13; P<.05) and (3201±325 vs. 3432±231; P<.05), respectively. Patients who started the session with lower preload (ΔSV after infusion of 250 cc ≥ 10%) more frequently developed IDH (P<.001). ConclusionsNon-invasive hemodynamic monitoring and preload data may constitute a valid tool in managing the volume status of HD patients and preventing IDH.

Digital health interventions to promote healthy lifestyle in hemodialysis patients: an interventional pilot study

Low physical activity has been associated with poor prognosis in hemodialysis (HD) patients. Interventions to maintain healthy lifestyle in this population are important to reduce mortality. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of digital health interventions (DHIs) for improving the physical activity and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in HD patients. The 24-week prospective study enrolled 31 clinically stable HD patients. All participants were assigned home exercises and provided with wearable devices. Dietary and exercise information was uploaded to a health management platform. Suggestions about diet and exercise were provided, and a social media group was created. Physical performance testing was performed at baseline and during weeks 4, 8, 12, 16 and 24. HRQoL and nutritional status were evaluated. A total of 25 participants completed the study. After the interventions, the daily step count increased 1658 steps. The 10-time-repeated sit-to-stand test reduced by 4.4 s, the sit-to-stand transfers in 60 s increased 12 repetitions, the distance of six-minute walk test (6MWT) increased by 55.4 m. The mental health components and burden of kidney disease of the Kidney Disease Quality of Life survey, and subjective global assessment (SGA) scores improved. By Spearman correlation, the monthly step count correlated positively with 6MWT and SGA. DHIs that combined wearable devices, a health management platform, and social media could strengthen physical activity and improve the HRQoL and nutrition of maintenance HD patients. The results outline a new model to promote healthy lifestyle behaviors in HD patients.

Effect of sacubitril valsartan on heart failure with mid-range or preserved ejection fraction in patients on maintenance hemodialysis: real-world experience in a single-center, prospective study

BackgroundThis study aimed to evaluate the effect of sacubitril valsartan (SV) on heart failure (HF) hospitalization and cardiovascular mortality in patients on hemodialysis with HF with preserved ejection fraction (EF; HFpEF).MethodsThis single-center, prospective study enrolled 155 stable hemodialysis patients with EF > 40% who were followed up for 12 months. Fifty-nine patients were treated with SV; the others were matched for EF (57.89 ± 9.35 vs. 58.00 ± 11.82, P = 0.9) at a ratio of 1:1 and included as controls. The target dosage of SV was 200 mg/day.ResultsTwenty-three (23/155; 14.84%) had HF with mid-range EF (HFmrEF), while 132 (85.16%) had HFpEF. After SV treatment, the peak early diastolic transmitral flow velocity/peak early diastolic mitral annular tissue velocity(E/e’) improved from 17.19 ± 8.74 to 12.80 ± 5.52 (P = 0.006), the left ventricular (LV) end-diastolic diameter decreased from 53.14 ± 7.67 mm to 51.56 ± 7.44 mm (P = 0.03), and the LV mass index decreased from 165.7 ± 44.6 g/m2 to 154.8 ± 24.0 g/m2 (P = 0.02). LVEF (P = 0.08) and LV global longitudinal strain (P = 0.7) did not change significantly. The composite outcome of first and recurrent HF hospitalization or cardiovascular death showed no difference between group. However, the Acute Dialysis Quality Initiative Workgroup (ADQI) HF class improved in 39 and 15 patients and worsened in 1 and 11 patients in the SV and control groups, respectively (P < 0.001). Age, diabetes mellitus, and pulmonary arterial pressure were independent risk factors for HF hospitalization and cardiovascular mortality in patients with HFpEF.ConclusionsSV improved LV hypertrophy, diastolic function, and the ADQI class for HF; however, it failed to reduce the composite endpoints of HF hospitalization and cardiovascular disease-related mortality over 12 months of follow-up in patients on maintenance hemodialysis with EF of > 40%.

Vascular refilling depends on the ratio of blood volume to extracellular volume in hemodialysis patients.

The ratio of blood volume to extracellular volume is approximately one to three under physiological conditions and also in stable chronic hemodialysis patients. Recently, it was found that this ratio remains unchanged during hemodialysis despite ultrafiltration. This would signify that the higher the ratio, the lower the refilling and vice versa. To test this hypothesis, treatment data of a previous study were re-analyzed. In 79 stable chronic hemodialysis patients, the refilling fraction was 0.749 ± 0.094. There was a significant negative correlation (r = -0.412; p < 0.001) between the blood volume to extracellular volume ratio and the refilling fraction. The blood volume to extracellular volume relationship seems to be a significant determinant of vascular refilling: the higher the ratio, the lower the refilling, and vice versa.

Hemodialysis and biomarkers of myocardial infarction- a cohort study.

End-stage renal disease is associated with a high risk of cardiovascular disease. We compared the concentration and prognostic ability of high sensitivity cardiac troponin T (hs-cTnT) and I (hs-cTnI) and cardiac myosin-binding protein C (cMyC) among stable hemodialysis patients. Patients were sampled before and after hemodialysis. We measured hs-cTnI, hs-cTnT and cMyC and used Cox regressions to assess the association between quartiles of concentrations and all-cause mortality and a combination of cardiovascular events and all-cause mortality during follow-up. A total of 307 patients were included, 204 males, mean age 66 years (SD 14). Before dialysis, 299 (99 %) had a hs-cTnT concentration above the 99th percentile, compared to 188 (66 %) for cMyC and 35 (11 %) for hs-cTnI. Hs-cTnT (23 %, p<0.001) and hs-cTnI (15 %, p=0.049) but not cMyC (4 %,p=0.256) decreased during dialysis. Follow-up was a median of 924days (492-957days); patients in the 3rd and 4th quartiles of hs-cTnT (3rd:HR 3.0, 95 % CI 1.5-5.8, 4th:5.2, 2.7-9.8) and the 4th quartile of hs-cTnI (HR 3.8, 2.2-6.8) had an increased risk of mortality. Both were associated with an increased risk of the combined endpoint for patients in the3rd and 4th quartiles. cMyC concentrations were not associated with risk of mortality or cardiovascular event. Hs-cTnT was above the 99th percentile in almost all patients. This was less frequent for hs-cTnI and cMyC. High cTn levels were associated with a 3-5-fold higher mortality. This association was not present for cMyC. These findings are important for management of hemodialysis patients.

Effects of Oral Sodium Bicarbonate Supplementation on Protein Metabolism and Inflammation in Iraqi Hemodialysis Patients: An Open-Label Randomized Controlled Trial.

The effect of correcting metabolic acidosis on protein metabolism in hemodialysis patients is controversial. To study the effects of oral sodium bicarbonate on protein metabolism and markers of inflammation in acidotic hemodialysis patients. Patients and Methods. An open-label randomized controlled trial was conducted at a single center. Sixty-six clinically stable adult hemodialysis patients were recruited with an average predialysis serum bicarbonate level of <22 mmol/l and a dialysate bicarbonate concentration of 35 mmol/l. Forty-nine participants have completed the study. Oral sodium bicarbonate tablets of 500 mg were given daily in the intervention group (n = 25) for 12 weeks versus the standard of care in the control group (n = 24). Outcomes compared intervention versus nonintervention in both groups at equivalent time points (0 and 3 months). The clinical data, anthropometry, dialysis adequacy, albumin, normalized protein catabolism rate, blood gas analysis, and bicarbonate were recorded at 0 and 3 months. In addition, muscle mass and handgrip strength were measured. Finally, IL-6 as a marker of inflammation was measured at randomization and three months. Serum bicarbonate and pH increased significantly from 17.57 ± 3.34 mmol/L to 20.69 ± 2.54 mmol/L and from 7.26 ± 0.06 to 7.34 ± 0.04, respectively (p < 0.0001). Serum albumin was significantly higher in the intervention group at three months than in the control group, 4.11 ± 0.45 vs. 3.79 ± 0.47 (p value 0.011). Serum potassium significantly decreased in the intervention group at three months compared to the control group, 5.00 ± 0.43 mEq/l vs. 5.33 ± 0.63 mEq/l (p value 0.03). Muscle strength expressed as handgrip has improved significantly in the intervention group at three months compared to the control group, 45.01 ± 19.19 vs. 33.93 ± 15.06 (p value 0.03). The IL-6 values were less in the intervention group at 3 months with a p value of 0.01. The interdialytic weight of the intervention group at three months was 2.42 ± 0.64 compared to the 2.20 ± 1.14 control group, but this did not reach statistical significance (p value of 0.4). The composite of (albumin + nPCR) at three months was achieved in 59.18% of the intervention group compared to 14.28% with a p value of 0.01. Correcting metabolic acidosis in hemodialysis patients improved serum albumin and nPCR without hypokalemia or significant interdialytic weight gain. This was particularly evident in patients with minimal inflammation with low IL-6 values.

#5221 PULMONARY HYPERTENSION: AN IMPORTANT RISK FACTOR IN CARDIOVASCULAR MORTALITY IN DIALYSIS PATIENTS

Abstract Background and Aims It is widely known that chronic dialysis patients experience significantly higher cardiovascular (CV) death rates than the overall population. Among other CV risk factors, recent research has shown pulmonary hypertension (PH) as a consequence of chronic kidney disease and end-stage renal failure. The present study aimed to determine the risk factors that impact survival in chronic haemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis patients and to analyse the correlation of these factors with pulmonary hypertension. Method We studied 125 stable haemodialysis and peritoneal patients (females 40%, mean age 52.42 ±11.88 years) on RRT for more than three months with a two-year follow-up. Demographic information, clinical characteristics, blood tests, and a thorough echocardiographic evaluation were collected at the optimal dry weight. After conventional echocardiographic examination, a tissue Doppler echocardiographic (TDE) examination was performed to evaluate the global and regional myocardial systolic and diastolic functions and pulmonary hypertension. Systolic pulmonary artery pressure (sPAP) of 35 mmHg was used to define PH. Results The cardiovascular mortality rate was 15.5%. In ROC analysis for CV mortality, the area under the curve (AUC) for PH and CRP was found 0.8; for LVM-I, E/E', and PP, the AUC was 0.76, 0.75, 0.72, respectively, while the inverse relationship was found with MASa and TASa with AUC = 0.66 and 0.95 respectively. According to the echocardiographic findings, PH was found in 28% (35 patients) of all patients. The mean PH was 33.46±5.38 mmHg. The higher level of higher parathormone (PTH), C-reactive protein (CRP), and E/E’ average, the lower left ventricular ejection fraction (EF), the peak systolic velocity at the lateral mitral annulus (MASa), and the peak systolic velocity at the lateral tricuspid annulus (TASa) were found to be predictors of PH. Patients evaluated with PH have a significantly lower cardiovascular survival rate [Long Rank (Mantel-Cox) p = 0.0001. Conclusion Our research demonstrates that cardiovascular morbidity and death in dialysis patients are mainly attributed to pulmonary hypertension, inflammation, vascular stiffness, and left ventricular hypertrophy. PH is common among dialysis patients. Inflammation, CKD-MBD biomarkers linked to systolic and diastolic left and right ventricular dysfunction, and inflammation all influence it. These conditions are all connected. Cardiovascular imaging is simple to use, offers a favourable viewpoint in the early identification of cardiac abnormalities and quick treatment of this disease, and is thus strongly advised in the dialysis population.

#2918 SERUM 25(OH)-VITAMIN D AND 1,25(OH)2 VITAMIN D IN HEMODIALYSIS PATIENTS: FACTORS AFFECTING THEIR CONCENTRATIONS AND THEIR EFFECT ON SURVIVAL

Abstract Background and Aims In haemodialysis patients, serum levels of vitamin D metabolites, 25-hydroxy-vitamin D (25D), a nutritional status of vitamin D, and 1,25-dihydroxy-vitamin D (1,25D), an active form of vitamin D, are previously reported to be low. In recent years of new CKD-MBD guidelines utilizing calcimimetics, vitamin D receptor agonists (VDRA) and new phosphate binders, relationship between serum 25D, 1,25D concentrations and clinical parameters in haemodialysis patients are not well known. We measured both serum 25D and 1,25D concentrations in chronic haemodialysis patients, and examined their association with several clinical factors and also with survival, in both cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses. Method A total of 108 stable haemodialysis patients (72 ± 10 year-old, 64 males, haemodialysis duration 6.9 ± 7.5 years, 45 with type 2 diabetes) were examined. Serum 25D was measured by a ECRIA method, and 1,25D by a RIA2 antibody method, and serum PTH by a IRMA assay. In a cross-sectional analysis, association of these vitamin D metabolites with clinical parameters was examined. In a longitudinal study, patients were followed for 3 years and survival of the patients was examined in relation with these vitamin D metabolites. Results Serum 25D concentrations were 12.0 ± 4.0 ng/ml, being hypovitaminosis D (&amp;lt;30 ng/ml) in all patients. Serum 1,25D concentrations were 14.7 ± 8.7 pg/ml, being lower than normal ranges (60-120 pg/ml) in 93% of the patients. There was no significant differences in 25D or 1,25D between those with diabetes and without. Although there was no significant correlation between 25D and haemodialysis duration, there was a significant negative correlation between 1,25D and haemodialysis duration (r = -0.187, p = 0.042). Neither of 1,25D or 25D was significantly correlated with serum calcium or phosphate concentrations. There was a significant, positive correlation between 25D and serum albumin (r = 0.172, p = 0.0454), although there was no significant correlation between 1,25D and serum albumin. Although there was no significant correlation between 25D and serum PTH, there was a significant, negative correlation between 1,25D and serum PTH (r = -0.379, p&amp;lt;0.001). Similarly, although there was no significant correlation between 25D and serum alkaline phosphatase, there was a significant, negative correlation between 1,25D and serum alkaline phosphatase (r = -0.309, p = 0.001). There were no significant differences in serum two vitamin D metabolites between patients with (n = 65) and without VDRA treatment, nor between those with (n = 12) and without calcimimetics. In a multiple regression analysis after adjustment of age, gender, haemodialysis duration, and VDRA treatment, serum 25D concentrations were significantly, independently associated with serum albumin (β = -0.244, p = 0.0149) (R2 = 0.125, p = 0.007). In a multiple regression analysis after the same adjustment, serum 1,25D concentrations were significantly, independently associated with serum intact PTH (β = -0.310, p = 0.003) (R2 = 0.200, p = 0.002). In the follow-up of three year, 16 patients died. Kaplan Meier analysis revealed that there tended to be better survival in patients with higher 25D concentration (n = 52) than those with lower concentration (p = 0.1936), although no significant association was seen between 1,25D and survival. Conclusion These results indicate that hypovitaminosis D (low 25D&amp;lt;30 ng/ml) is seen in all haemodialysis patients, and in most of these patients, serum 1,25D concentrations are low. Lower serum 25D concentrations are significantly associated with lower serum albumin, i.e., poorer nutritional status. Higher serum 1,25D, even in low ranges, is significantly associated with lower intact PHT and alkaline phosphatase, i.e. lower bone metabolism status. The results suggest that, in the era of new CKD-MBD treatments with calcimimetics and new VDRA, serum 25D may represent a nutritional status, and that serum 1,25D concentrations with regard to bone metabolism may be re-considered for the assessment of CKD-MBD, particularly in regards to prevention of secondary hyperparathyroidism.

#3930 EFFECT OF TWO PHOSPHATE BINDERS ON VITAMIN D LEVELS IN HEMODIALYSIS PATIENTS

Abstract Background and Aims A recent meta-analysis highlighted the impact of different types of phosphate binders on vitamin D metabolism in patients with stage 3 CKD. Sevelamer was associated with lower serum 25(OH) vitamin D levels probably due to reduced intestinal absorption of D3 (cholecalciferol). Corresponding effects of different phosphate binders in hemodialysis patients have not been studied. Method We performed an observational prospective study in which 55 stable hemodialysis patients were followed for 28 months. Patients’ age was 42-91 years old and duration of hemodialysis was 2-312 months. Patients received as phosphate binders sevelamer, sucroferric oxyhydroxide or combination. The type of binders, the administration of D3 supplements, paricalcitol or etecalcetide as well as the biochemical control of the patients were recorded every two months. Serum 25(OH) vitamin D levels and the proportion of patients who required D3 supplementation to maintain 25(OH) vitamin D levels &amp;gt;20ng/mL were assessed. Results At baseline, 60% of patients used sevelamer as phosphate binder, 22% sucroferric oxyhydroxide and 18% combination, while 36% were on D3 supplements. Levels of 25(OH) vitamin D showed a significant increase after the first year of follow-up. (Dstart:16±8ng/ml vs D12months:26±10ng/ml, P = .001). After one year D3 supplementation ratio increased to 48% and remained at these levels until the end of follow-up. Taking paricalcitol or etecalcetide did not affect the results. No differences in 25(OH) vitamin D and D3 supplementation rate levels were observed between those receiving the different binders or the co administration group. No differences were observed in the biochemical markers tested as well as in dialysis adequacy. Conclusion In context of daily clinical practice, no differences were observed in the levels of 25(OH) vitamin D in either patients receiving sevelamer, sucroferric oxyhydroxide or combination of both as phosphate binders. Half of hemodialysis patients require cholecalciferol supplementation to maintain adequate 25(OH)vitamin D levels.

Nine Months of Hybrid Intradialytic Exercise Training Improves Ejection Fraction and Cardiac Autonomic Nervous System Activity.

Cardiovascular disease is the most common cause of death in hemodialysis (HD) patients. Intradialytic aerobic exercise training has a beneficial effect on cardiovascular system function and reduces mortality in HD patients. However, the impact of other forms of exercise on the cardiovascular system, such as hybrid exercise, is not clear. Briefly, hybrid exercise combines aerobic and strength training in the same session. The present study examined whether hybrid intradialytic exercise has long-term benefits on left ventricular function and structure and the autonomous nervous system in HD patients. In this single-group design, efficacy-based intervention, twelve stable HD patients (10M/2F, 56 ± 19 years) participated in a nine-month-long hybrid intradialytic training program. Both echocardiographic assessments of left ventricular function and structure and heart rate variability (HRV) were assessed pre, during and after the end of the HD session at baseline and after the nine-month intervention. Ejection Fraction (EF), both assessed before and at the end of the HD session, appeared to be significantly improved after the intervention period compared to the baseline values (48.7 ± 11.1 vs. 58.8 ± 6.5, p = 0.046 and 50.0 ± 13.4 vs. 56.1 ± 3.4, p = 0.054 respectively). Regarding HRV assessment, hybrid exercise training increased LF and decreased HF (p < 0.05). Both conventional Doppler and tissue Doppler imaging indices of diastolic function did not change after the intervention period (p > 0.05). In conclusion, long-term intradialytic hybrid exercise training was an effective non-pharmacological approach to improving EF and the cardiac autonomous nervous system in HD patients. Such exercise training programs could be incorporated into HD units to improve the patients' cardiovascular health.

Trends in mortality and comorbidities in hemodialysis patients between 2012 and 2017 in an East-European Country: a retrospective study.

The aim of this study was to evidence trends and changes in mortality, comorbid conditions, prognosis, and causes of death after 5years of continuous evolution of hemodialysis (HD) patients in Romania. We included two cohorts of stable HD patients (901 from 2012 and 1396 from 2017). Both cohorts were followed up for 1year. The 5-year survivors of the 2012 cohort were identified in 2017 and their data changes were assessed. The 2017 patients were older, with longer time on dialysis, higher serum creatinine and urea levels, and required higher ultrafiltration volume per dialysis. They also had lower hemoglobin, lower C-reactive protein, higher albumin, higher calcium bicarbonate, and higher parathyroidectomy prevalence. The 2017 cohort presented with lower average dialysis flow, less administration of iron sucrose, had more catheters, lower hepatitis C prevalence, higher diabetes mellitus prevalence, higher heart valve calcifications, higher heart rate disorders, higher prevalence of left ventricular hypertrophy, and lower ejection fraction. Cardiovascular disease was the main cause of death in both years (50% in 2012 and 45.6% in 2017), followed by sepsis and cancer. The mortality was higher in 2017 compared to 2012 (14.1 vs 6.6%). The 5-year mortality was 37.2% with an average of 7.44%/year. The risk of death increased with age, higher C-reactive protein, higher phosphate, lower hemoglobin, and lower albumin. Cardiovascular disease remains the main causes of death in HD-treated patients but with decreasing trend. Developing regional therapeutic strategies for quality care with early intervention will most likely improve mortality.

Intensive Nutritional Counseling and Education for Management of Hyperphosphatemia in Hemodialysis Patients at Al-Khor Hospital- Hamad Medical Corporation - State of Qatar

Objectives: To assess the dietary phosphate intake of hemodialysis patients with hyperphosphatemia and the effects of a dietetic intervention focused on limiting dietary phosphate load. Design: Cross-sectional dietary phosphate intake assessment and prospective intervention study. Setting: Hospital hemodialysis units of AL-Khor hospital – Hamad Medical Corporation, Qatar. Subjects: sixteen stable adult hemodialysis patients, who had phosphorus serum levels ≥1.6 mmol/L. Intervention: Analysis of dietary composition and of the effects of individual dietetic counseling to reduce phosphorus intake while preserving the same or improving protein intake. Main outcome measures: Differences in nutrient intake between pre and post-dietary intervention among hyperphosphatemia patients, and changes in phosphorus–protein ratio, and serum phosphate, after the dietetic intervention. Results: Significant differences in nutrient intake including energy, protein, and phosphorus were detected after the intervention. After dietetic intervention in the hyperphosphatemia patients, a decrease in the dietary phosphate–protein ratio (28.9 -13.4 mg/g, P &lt;0.05) also occurred. Serum phosphate showed a trend of a significant decrease after the dietary intervention (2.2mmol/L-1.68mmol/L), P &lt; 0.05). Conclusion: Individual intensive nutritional education and counseling may be useful in reducing phosphate load and improving serum phosphorus with a positive effect on nutrient intake. A phosphate-controlled diet has a role in an integrated therapeutic approach to hyperphosphatemia and positive calcium-phosphorus balance in hemodialysis patients.

Effect of Fludrocortisone on Intradialytic Hypotension: An Open-Label, Randomized, Crossover Study

Introduction: Intradialytic hypotension (IDH) is an important complication during chronic hemodialysis due to its adverse cardiovascular and hemodialysis outcomes. Case reports have demonstrated that administration of fludrocortisone before undergoing hemodialysis might increase intradialytic blood pressure. This study is a randomized crossover study aiming to evaluate the intradialytic hemodynamic effects of fludrocortisone. Material and Methods: A randomized, controlled two-period crossover trial was conducted at Lampang Hospital in stable chronic hemodialysis patients who experienced IDH >30% in their sessions during the past 3 months. All participants have randomly received a single dose of 0.2-mg fludrocortisone 30 min before each hemodialysis session, or had no treatment for 4 weeks. After a 2-week washout period, the participants were then switched to the other treatment for 4 weeks. The primary outcome was the mean lowest intradialytic mean arterial pressure (MAP) during the hemodialysis session. Results: A total of 17 patients were recruited with a mean age of 61.7 ± 14.8 years. By analysis of crossover design, the mean lowest intradialytic MAP was not different between receiving fludrocortisone or with no treatment (76.1 ± 12.5 vs. 73.9 ± 11.5 mm Hg, p for treatment effect = 0.331, p for period effect = 0.855, p for sequence effect = 0.870). There was no difference in the incidence of IDH between the two groups (34.4% in fludrocortisone vs. 42.7% in no treatment, p = 0.137). However, in diabetic patients and patients with residual kidney function, the incidence of IDH was significantly lower when receiving fludrocortisone (30.8 vs. 52.6%, p < 0.001, and 27.6 vs. 74.3%, p < 0.001, respectively). Conclusions: In chronic hemodialysis patients who had IDH, fludrocortisone administration did not improve intradialytic hemodynamics and did not decrease the incidence of IDH.

Adherence to Caloric and Protein Recommendations in Older Hemodialysis Patients: A Multicenter Study.

Hemodialysis (HD) patients are characterized by malnutrition, which adversely affects their survival. The development of malnutrition is influenced, among other factors, by improper diet and the advanced age of patients. The study aimed to assess the nutritional status and adherence to dietary recommendations among older patients. The multicenter study included 179 stable HD patients. The nutritional status was assessed by a 7-point Subjective Global Assessment (SGA). Anthropometry and body composition was analyzed. The diet was assessed based on the 3-day food diary and the Food Frequency Questionnaire with 6 answers (FFQ-6). Blood laboratory tests were performed. Based on the 7-point SGA, malnutrition was diagnosed in 38.5% of HD patients. The decreased content of the muscle tissue (LTI < 14 kg/m2) was observed in 70.4% of the examined patients and the decreased concentration of s-albumin was observed in 44.1% of patients. Older patients had significantly lower LTI. 26% of patients consumed less than 25 kcal/kg body weight and less than 0.8 g protein/kg body weight. Older patients’ diets contained significantly fewer calories. There were significant differences between nutrient intake on a weekday with dialysis, a weekday without dialysis, and a weekend day without dialysis. The lowest intake of nutrients was observed on the day of dialysis. Nutritional education and the determination of whether food is permitted during hemodialysis are necessary to improve patients’ nutrition.