Morbidity and Mortality Associated with Long-Term Hemodialysis

Abstract

Now that problems of circulatory access, infection, osteodystrophy, and neuropathies seem under control, the major concerns today are the acceleration of atherosclerosis in patients in long-term treatment and the rehabilitation of those with psychosocial problems arising from dependence on a machine. Patients who previously faced only rapid, usually painful death are in some instances surviving for a decade or more.