Comparison of two methods of kinetic modeling.

Kinetic modeling has been shown to be beneficial for a number of reasons in the dialysis population. It is useful as a quality control measure of dialysis, with a critical review of individual dialysis conditions; and it provides quantification for evaluation and change of treatment prescriptions allowing cost-saving reduction of treatment times. Kinetic modeling also provides objective patient and staff education with objective nutritional surveillance and improved patient compliance. A comparison of the results from UKM and DDQ for 40 simultaneously modeled patients showed statistically significant differences in pool volume, protein catabolic rate and dialyzer clearance with UKM yielding a higher mean in each case. Pool volumes obtained in DDQ compared more favorably to those obtained by separate calculations based on sex, age, height and weight, indicating greater accuracy in DDQ. This is partly because in DDQ solute removal is measured directly and rigid control of the dialysis process is not required. DDQ is a more accurate, flexible model which provides both an understanding of each individual's dialysis treatment and protein nutriture, thereby improving patient care.