University of Bristol study suggests alternatives to dialysis for older patients

A major randomized study led by the University of Bristol suggests that dialysis should not be the default treatment for older patients with kidney failure. The research, published in The Lancet, investigated whether a structured, less medicalized approach without dialysis could serve as a viable alternative for elderly patients with multiple health conditions or frailty.

The Prepare for Kidney Care trial involved 445 participants from 31 UK kidney centers. Over an average follow-up period of 4.5 years, the study found that neither dialysis nor a structured program of responsive management resulted in better outcomes when considering both length and quality of life together.

Findings indicate that only 28% of participants who were preparing for dialysis eventually started the treatment. The study aims to provide evidence to assist patients and families in decision-making and to influence NHS policy regarding care for this demographic.