An automated cleaning device for dialyzers: machine design and technology.

The expansion of dialysis services and the introduction of disposable dialyzers have led to an increase in cost of hemodialysis. Many centers have attempted to reduce the cost of dialysis by using dialyzers on multiple occasions after cleaning and sterilization. Manual techniques for cleaning dialyzers are tedious, using valuable technician time and possibly leading to an increase in exposure to Hepatitis B surface antigen. These disadvantages can be avoided by the use of the automated device in this paper. We have also evaluated the dependability of the machine and the reduction in dialysis costs realized from its use.