Adequacy of Dialysis

Another aim in the the treatment of dialysis is to provide adequate and quantified clearance of small molecules, such as urea. To estimate the amount of plasma urea cleared during dialysis and in prescribing the dialysis session length urea kinetic Modelling (UKM) is commonly used.

This modelling (UKM) requires accurate measurements of TBW. In the expression kt/v, v is assumed to equal TBW. Currently v is estimated from anthropometric measurement. BioScan would simplify the measurements of TBW and would aid in monitoring dialysis treatment adequacy. Traditional methods of evaluating nutritional status and body composition, such as height and weight ratios and skin fold anthropometry, were compounded by changes in hydration status.