I’ve been watching this, among other, innovation research projects for several years. Many focus on HD dialysis, but the AWAK artificial kidney project targets PD dialysis. Below please find a link to a recent YouTube video with an update on this project.
Jayhawker
it looks great.
It’s still in development phase but they will begin the pilot with people this year, finally. They fell behind on their work on this with COVID. I’m keeping an eye on implant research but think we’re a few decades away from that becoming a reality. I’ll see what I can find with updates on those research projects.
Jayhawker
Here’s an update on the bio artificial kidney project. As you’ll see, it is gradually moving forward but is likely many years from human piloting. Nevertheless, when they get it figured out, it will be a game changer. No anti-rejection meds needed. Many more would qualify for this treatment option than currently qualify for transplants. Plus far too few available kidneys to meet the need. This would resolve that issue for many.
Of course, there are other research projects underway that will greatly improve quality and length of life for persons in renal failure.
Jayhawker
Thanks for posting! I was researching the artificial kidney timeline when I was on PD dialysis. That would be a game changer. I wonder why it is taking so long for medical research to implement this treatment. Both the portable machine and artificial kidney. Modern technology and practicing professionals can and will change so much for people living with ESRD. Finally.
There simply hasn’t been the push for innovation in this area of medicine. It’s got to relate to money. The dialysis companies, which are garnering a lot of profit from dialysis, are likely not interested in this research. Plus, I suspect many think renal failure is addressed adequately through Medicare/Medicaid support.
Regardless, this needs to happen and it will generate a lot of profit for those who develop these new treatments. I was also keeping an eye on tap water delivery systems for dialysate, dialysus fluid. I’ll check to see where that research is at this point. Initially they were focusing on in home HD dialysis only.
Jayhawker
Dialysis is the biggest cost to Medicare...The Artificial Kidney could be the Golden Goose that saves Medicare, but unfortunately, the Dialysis Suppliers guard the market and funding is almost non existent for innovation...but I keep hoping ...Thankyou Jayhawker for your follow ups....If they ever get it done I want a pink one
😂
I still have some hope that we’ll see the AWAK come to fruition within the next 2-5 years. Even that would be an amazing improvement for PD dialysis patients.
Jayhawker
sounds promising since they just received funding and have made it to trials with people now! Yay!
Young Adult Kidney Patients Doing PD Dialysis
What does having a NEW KIDNEY feel like? 
Kidney Transplant
