Long-term outcome of cats and dogs with acute kidney injury treated with intermittent hemodialysis: 135 cases (1997-2010).

Objective: To determine the long-term outcome for small animal patients with acute kidney injury (AKI) treated with intermittent hemodialysis (IHD).

Design: Retrospective case series.

Animals: 42 cats and 93 dogs treated with IHD for AKI.

Equipment commonly used in veterinary renal replacement therapy.

Hemodialysis is a highly technical procedure that requires specialized equipment that is not used in other areas of veterinary medicine. Certain hemodialysis-specific monitoring equipment is also employed.

Vascular access for extracorporeal renal replacement therapy in veterinary patients.

Vascular access is the first and most basic requirement for successful extracorporeal renal replacement therapy (ERRT). Dual-lumen catheters are the most commonly used method of vascular access for ERRT in veterinary patients. An adequately functioning dialysis catheter allows for smooth and efficient patient management, whereas a poorly functioning catheter frustrates the technician, doctor, and patient.