The possibility of renal function recovery in chronic hemodialysis patients should not be overlooked: Single center experience

Chronic hemodialysis is implemented when irreversible loss of kidney function occurs. Sometimes renal recovery is overlooked. From January 2005 to December 2014, we identified 28 patients hemodialyzed for more than 3 months who had renal replacement therapy discontinued. The group consisted of 17 (57.7%) males and 11 (42.3%) females. Patients were 18–87 years old. Time of hemodialysis ranged from 3 to 97 months. Of note, 14 (50%) patients were referred from local dialysis units for solution of vascular access problems. In 13 (46.2%) patients dialysis was abandoned within the first 6 months, in 5 (17.8%) patients between 6 and 12 months, and in 10 (35.7%) patients beyond 12 months. Estimated dialysis‐free survival was 94.4% (SE 0.054) and 82% (SE 0.095) at 12 and 24 months, respectively. All physicians must be aware of possible kidney function improvement. In patients with preserved diuresis fall in periodical urea or creatinine measurements might be a sign of renal recovery.