A Study on the Neurological Mechanisms of the Impact of Different Dialysis Methods on Brain Structure and Functional Network Dynamic Reorganization in Patients With End‐Stage Renal Disease Undergoing Dialysis

PMCID: PMC12177206

PMID: 40534242

DOI: 10.1002/brb3.70623

Journal: Brain and behavior

Publication Date: 2025-6-18

Authors: Han H, Chen H, Zhang Y, Wei J

Key Points

• Peritoneal dialysis demonstrated superior cognitive preservation compared to hemodialysis
• MMSE scores improved from 16.01 to 19.56 in the peritoneal dialysis group (p < 0.001)
• Peritoneal dialysis may offer enhanced brain network reorganization and cognitive protection for ESRD patients

Summary

This comparative study investigated the neurological effects of two dialysis methods—hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis—in 120 end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients over a one-year period. While both dialysis techniques improved renal function, the research revealed significant differences in cognitive outcomes and brain network dynamics, with peritoneal dialysis demonstrating more favorable neurological results.

The study's most compelling finding was the superior cognitive performance in the peritoneal dialysis group, evidenced by higher Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MOCA) and Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores. MRI analyses further supported these results, showing improved functional brain network efficiency in patients receiving peritoneal dialysis. Despite comparable safety profiles, with no significant differences in complication rates, the neurological benefits of peritoneal dialysis suggest potential neuroprotective mechanisms that warrant further investigation.