ABSTRACT
The effects of a haemodialysis session [D. S] on the left ventricular function [LVF] were studied in 31 patients [77% males and 23% females] with end stage renal failure. Their mean age was 30. 4 +/- 7 83 years [17- 42 years] and they have been on maintainance haemodialysis for 2 months to 5 years [mean duration 19. 9 +/- 13. 61 months]. Echocardiograhic study revealed that the D. S. resulted in significant decrease [P< 0.05] in the mean end systolic diameter and volume; mean end diastolic diameter, end diastolic volume and volume index. Similarly, there was a significant decrease in the mean stroke volume and mean left ventricular ejection time. In the mean time, there was a significant increase in the mean ejection fraction and the mean circumferential fiber shortening velocity. It was evident from our work that, the D. S resulted in partial correction of serum electrolytes imbalance and metabolic abnormalities. There was a consequent improvement in the echocardiographicaly determined L VF [as reflected by decrease in left ventricular dimensions and volumes] with better contractility. Accordingly, it can be assumed that, the disturbed left ventricular cardiac functions found prior to dialysis are mainly due to functional rather than structural changes