Hemodialysis patients are at risk for toxicity agents used in reprocessing hemodialyzers. The from various disinfecting, sterilizing, and cleaning aim of the project is to develop a nontoxic biocide capable of effective, economical sterilization and chemical cleaning of dialyzers. The potential exists for a chemical formulation that has these properties and maintains the integrity of the unit while ensuring the safety of the dialyzed blood.The chemical properties of activated chlorous acid/chlorine dioxide (RenNew-D@) appear to fill the requirements. Additional research is required to ensure the absolute integrity of the reprocessed dialyzer and safety of the patient. Significant work has been done already in addressing the basic biochemistry of the chlorous acid/chlorine dioxide system, which involves comparing it with other chemical systems that have been presented for use and found problematic: formaldehyde, glutaraldehyde, peracetic acid, and bleach.The elimination of first-use syndrome and blood component/dialyzer incompatibility are of prime importance for any chemical system under consideration. Therefore, sterilant/cleaner/dialyzer unit compatibility must undergo thorough investigation. This will be the focus of Phase I work. Phase II efforts will detail the optimum formulation, use protocol, and delivery system based on sound chemistry and economics.
Anticipated Results:More than 70,000 patients are currently being treated by dialysis at least three times per week at the expense of the Federal government. An effective, nontoxic sterilant that would enable the hemodialyzers to be reused without having patients experience adverse reactions could potentially reduce Federal expenses while improving the quality of life of a seriously ill segment of the population.National Institute Of Diabetes And Digestive And Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)
