David W. Windus, M.D.

DEPARTMENT OF Int Med - Renal
Keywords: blood coagulation, hemodialysis, platelets, renal failure, thrombosis

Thrombosis of hemodialysis fistulas is the most common cause of hospitalization in hemodialysis patients. Major risk factors for fistula thrombosis include the use of prosthetic graft fistulas made from polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and the presence of diabetes mellitus. Traditionally, the coagulation system of individuals with renal failure has been thought to be defective, thereby leading to an enhanced bleeding risk; however, thrombosis is a frequent complication. The goal of our laboratory is to better understand the effects of prosthetic materials, hemodialysis and renal failure on the coagulation system. We hope to determine the effects of hemodialysis and biomaterials on the human platelet. Our research aids in the understanding of mechanisms of thrombosis and designing therapeutic interventions.