Usefulness of a Novel Vascular Access Management Method Using a Laser Blood Flowmeter.

Introduction: Various methods for vascular access (VA) management have been studied. We investigated the usefulness of a new, simple, and quantitative VA management method using the Pocket LDF® laser blood flowmeter (hereinafter "LDF") that noninvasively measures peripheral circulation flow.

Methods: Peripheral circulation flow was measured in 82 patients (43 men) on maintenance hemodialysis with an arteriovenous fistula (AVF).

Japan's Support of Hemodialysis in Southeast Asia.

Background: With continuing economic development in the developing countries of Southeast Asia, the numbers of dialysis facilities and patients are increasing every year. However, dialysis-related devices tend to be provided with financial support from developed countries and/or donations from nonprofit organizations, and some donated devices are disposed of, without attempts at repair, when they break down. Device management and dialysate quality can also be problematic.