Nephrology / PD Fluid
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) in Ethiopia is rising because of increased risk factors such as high blood pressure and diabetes. In many African countries, End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) is typically fatal. Where kidney dialysis treatment considered the norm in industrialized countries, it is limited here. Dialysis in Ethiopia is rare because of its relatively high expense for citizens.
For 20 years, we have brought in vascular surgeons who both assist in operating rooms and help guide residents and other health workers.
As of 2018, after much planning and preparation, our nephrology team is set to produce the first PD fluid in Ethiopia, thereby launching the first in-country peritoneal dialysis program in Ethiopia.
We are working with our partner hospitals to make PD a permanent fixture at our partner hospitals and communities beyond.
Accomplishments
In 2017, we worked with teaching hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia to create education programs based around vascular surgery.
Our visiting surgeons spent time in operating rooms, vascular clinics, and labs, leading and teaching local surgeons at two major hospitals.
Assisted in the establishment of robust vascular medical and surgical educational programs for general surgeons and various primary and specialist non-surgical medical providers.
Aided in the establishment of vascular data-based practice guidelines, as well as clinical and basic scientific research programs.
Furthered study in the feasibility of remote vascular teaching and telemedicine clinical care between the US and Addis Ababa medical centers.
SAO donates medical equipment and supplies as needed to enhance the quality and availability of vascular surgery services within the public sector in Ethiopia.
We published a retrospective cross-sectional study on AV fistula maturation. As far as we know, this is the first study of its kind in Ethiopia, and possibly in the greater region.
In 2017, Duke University donated an inverted fluorescent microscope to one of our partner hospitals. Representatives from the school traveled to Ethiopia, installed the device, and trained people in how to use it. It has been instrumental to boosting the renal pathology program there.
Current priorities
Produce PD fluid in Ethiopia
Expand access to periodontal dialysis
Train nurses in using the fluid
Organize home visits
Perform dialysis operations wherever needed