LONDON, ON – Researchers at London Health Sciences Centre Research Institute (LHSCRI) and Western University’s Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry have launched a clinical trial that is evaluating a new type of dialysis filter called Elisio HX™ that may significantly improve outcomes for people living with kidney failure across Canada. Unlike standard filters, the innovative design developed by Nipro is engineered to remove a broader range of toxins from the blood – a breakthrough that scientists believe could help patients live longer, healthier lives.
Dialysis is an essential, life-sustaining treatment for millions of people living with kidney failure. It uses a special filter to do the work of the kidney by removing waste, salt, and fluid from the blood. However, dialysis can lead to quality of life concerns. Most patients require it at least three days a week and each treatment lasts several hours. A dialysis filter does not work as effectively as a real kidney, which also limits life expectancy.
“While kidney transplants remain the best option for survival, they can involve long waits and many patients are not eligible,” says Dr. Pavel Roshanov, Scientist at LHSCRI, Nephrologist at London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC), and Assistant Professor at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry. “It's therefore critical that we improve dialysis to enhance patient outcomes, including quality of life.”
The five-year multicentre randomized trial, called DIALEX, will include up to 4,800 patients across more than 100 dialysis units in Canada. This includes dialysis units at LHSC and its satellite locations in Chatham, Goderich, Hanover, Owen Sound, Sarnia, Stratford, Tillsonburg, and Woodstock, Ontario. Participating patients are randomized to receive dialysis with the standard filter used in most hospitals or a newer type of filter. Heart problems, survival, and symptoms associated with dialysis will be compared to determine if dialysis with the new filter leads to better health outcomes and quality of life.
“In this study, we will learn at least two important things,” says Roshanov. “The first is whether eliminating more toxins through these new types of dialysis filters improves survival. The second is whether this kind of treatment reduces hospitalizations for various reasons, like heart attacks, strokes, or infections, and if patients feel better overall.”
Unlike many clinical trials which rely on care being provided in a research-intensive hospital, this study aims to include community hospitals across the country. This will allow patients living in rural areas the opportunity to participate in the trial without needing to travel.
“This study is about putting patients first,” adds Dr. Roshanov. “By expanding access to participation in this trial, we not only ensure our findings are representative of as many patients as possible, we can also offer an opportunity to patients to access treatments they otherwise wouldn’t be able to.”
Funding for the trial was provided by the Canadian Institutes for Health Research and Western’s Health Data Research Network Canada Pragmatic Trials Training Program.
-30-
MEDIA CONTACTS:
Jess Brady, Media Relations Consultant, London Health Sciences Centre, (226) 927-7486, media@lhsc.on.ca
About London Health Sciences Centre Research Institute:
At London Health Sciences Centre Research Institute (LHSCRI), our teams pioneer discoveries that transform the health of adult and paediatric patients around the world. As the research institute of London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC), we conduct research where patient care is delivered, working alongside patients, families, health-care providers and academic partners like Western University. We are leaders in advancing the understanding, diagnosis, treatment and management of diseases and health conditions through a diverse research program that ranges from laboratory-based science to clinical trials. Our research has a global impact as we build on LHSC’s 150-year legacy of health innovation and drive forward medical breakthroughs that make a difference in the lives of patients and their families. Find us online at www.lhscri.ca and on social media @LHSCRI.
About Western
Western University delivers an academic experience second to none. Since 1878, The Western Experience has combined academic excellence with life-long opportunities for intellectual, social and cultural growth in order to better serve our communities. Our research excellence expands knowledge and drives discovery with real-world application. Western attracts individuals with a broad worldview, seeking to study, influence and lead in the international community. For more information, visit https://uwo.ca/
Read more at https://dialex.study.
Method of Research
Randomized controlled/clinical trial
Subject of Research
People