International Journal of
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Mini Review Volume 10 Issue 3
Dialysis: historical development, modalities and contemporary practice
Anita L R Saldanha, Ana Paula Pantoja Margeotto, André Luis Valera Gasparoto, Rafaela Cristina Goebel Winter Gasparoto, Tania Leme da Rocha Martinez
Received: May 06, 2026 | Published: May 22, 2026
Citation: Saldanha ALR, Margeotto APP, Gasparoto ALV, et al. Dialysis: historical development, modalities and contemporary practice. Int J Fam Commun Med. 2026;10(3):95-97. DOI: 10.15406/ijfcm.2026.10.00421
Abstract
Dialysis is a life-sustaining renal replacement therapy used in acute kidney injury and chronic kidney disease. It enables the removal of uremic toxins, correction of electrolyte imbalances, and maintenance of fluid balance. Since its conceptual origins in the 19 th century, dialysis has evolved from experimental diffusion studies into a cornerstone of modern medicine. Key historical milestones include Thomas Graham’s description of diffusion (1854), early extracorporeal experiments by John Abel (1913), and Willem Kolff’s first practical hemodialysis machine (1943). The introduction of the arteriovenous shunt by Belding Scribner in 1960 enabled long-term dialysis, while subsequent decades saw expansion through public funding and technological innovation. Modern dialysis emphasizes patient-centered care, home-based therapies, and advanced technologies. Dialysis operates through diffusion, ultrafiltration, and convection across semipermeable membranes. Major modalities include hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, hemodiafiltration, and continuous renal replacement therapy. Peritoneal dialysis offers advantages such as preservation of residual renal function and greater patient independence, while home-based therapies are increasingly utilized. Dialysis is indicated in end-stage renal disease, acute kidney injury, severe electrolyte disturbances, metabolic acidosis, fluid overload, and certain toxic ingestions. Complications vary by modality and include hypotension, infections, and membrane dysfunction. Recent advances include high-flux membranes, online hemodiafiltration, and expansion of home dialysis technologies. Updated international guidelines emphasize individualized care, infection prevention, and structured patient training. Peritoneal dialysis is increasingly used in resource-limited settings and in acute kidney injury. Future directions include wearable devices, artificial kidneys, telemedicine, and personalized treatment strategies.
Keywords: dialysis, peritoneal dialysis, Hemodialysis, renal replacement therapy, acute kidney injury, chronic kidney disease, home dialysis, technological advances
©2026 Saldanha, et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and build upon your work non-commercially.