A Randomized Trial on Health-Related Patient Satisfaction Level with High-Efficiency Online Hemodiafiltration Versus High-Flux Dialysis

Background/aim: Our aim was to investigate the effect of on-line HDF versus high-flux (HF) hemodialysis (HD) on a patient's health-related satisfaction level.

Methods: Overall, 72 patients, on regular low-flux HD for 51 ± 26 month mean age of 54 ± 12 years, were randomized to HF (group 1, n = 36) and to HDF (group 2, n = 36) and followed up for 24 months. Assessment was based on the patient's satisfaction level using modified questionnaires of the validated Kidney Disease Quality of Life-Short Form (KDQOL-SF) version 1.3.

Results: The HDF group achieved a higher satisfaction level than the HF group (p < 0.0001) with less cramps (3 ± 5 vs. 55 ± 8), itching (9 ± 10 vs. 48 ± 10), joint pain and stiffness (24 ± 10 vs. 83 ± 8), and improvement in general mood (94 ± 9 vs. 28 ± 16), sexual performance (57 ± 10 vs. 5 ± 5), and social activity (82 ± 9 vs. 15 ± 8).

Conclusion: High-efficiency postdilution on-line HDF versus high-flux HD significantly improved patients' satisfaction and quality of life, including social, physical, and professional activities.