Plain-English translation of NCT05465044 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated · Translation generated · How we translate trials
This study doesn't follow the usual testing phases — it may be an observational study or a different type of research.
This trial compares two ways of starting hemodialysis — a kidney filtering treatment — in veterans with end-stage kidney disease. One group will start with twice-weekly dialysis (a gentler, gradual approach), while the other group will start with the standard three-times-weekly schedule right away. The study wants to see if starting slowly helps veterans feel better, keep more of their remaining kidney function, and have a better quality of life.
Starting dialysis three times a week is hard on patients' bodies and quality of life, especially in that first critical year. Early research suggests that beginning with twice-weekly dialysis might preserve kidney function longer, reduce fatigue and side effects, and let veterans spend more time away from the dialysis center — but this gentler approach hasn't been properly tested in a large, rigorous study yet.
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If you join, you'll be randomly assigned to start either twice-weekly or three-times-weekly hemodialysis. You'll receive your dialysis treatments as usual at one of six VA centers, but the study team will check on you every three months with tests and interviews to track how you're doing — both physically and in terms of your quality of life. The study visits will mostly happen during your regular dialysis clinic appointments or can be done by telehealth, so there's minimal extra burden.
AI-generated summary from trial data · Jun 29, 2026 · Not medical advice
United States