[Shalyndria]

Let's face it - as Diabetics, one of the major complications of our disease is kidney failure. Well, one company has manufactured an ingenious cylinder that acts as the filtering system for the blood in lieu of glomeruli of the kidneys. It is a biosynthetic device that utilizes renal proximal tubule cells, and physicians are hopeful that one day it will be implantable in patients with chronic and severe renal failure. Have a look at the full spec of the Renal Assist Device (RAD) on the Nephros Therapeutics Website.
Of course it'll take many years to realize this vision, but I think it's pretty cool nonetheless

Shy

[mike9876]

Hi shy

If it works it will lift the worry many diabetics who developed kidney problems have. I think we all fear kidney disease. My doc always tells do you know how many diabetics I have in hospital on dialysis.
A fear friend of mine passed away from kidney failure, he had good control, good a1c but his kidneys just failed all of a susen with no warning, dialysis did work for him. Maybe if this treatment was around it would of saved his life.

[Dewey]

That's extremely interesting and awesome, Shy! It would actually benefit way more than the Diabetic community, as I know someone who became paraplegic as a result of an auto accident (about 20 years ago or so). He has since developed renal problems, and currently undergoes dialysis. It would be awesome if he had this instead. My only concern would be that he's continuously monitored by the health care team, as he may not be aware should a problem arise. However, it probably will be a long time out, so guess he (and those Diabetics with kidney problems) will indeed have to wait. Advancements like these offer many real hope for a brighter and healthier future.