History and Development of Vascular Access and Its Impact on Hemodialysis Outcome

ABSTRACT

Maintenance hemodialysis is a mainstay of the renal replacement therapy for patients with end stage renal disease. The development of modern hemodialysis is principally owing to the invention of artificial kidney machine and the establishment of a stable and practical dialysis access. The developmental history of vascular access surgery will be discussed with the heroic works of the pioneers.