# 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

## TL;DR

This study compares how hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis affect brain structure and cognitive function in patients with end-stage kidney disease.

## Contribution

The study reveals that peritoneal dialysis may offer neuroprotective benefits compared to hemodialysis in ESRD patients.

## Key findings

- Peritoneal dialysis showed better cognitive function with higher MMSE and MOCA scores.
- MRI analysis revealed better functional brain network efficiency in the peritoneal dialysis group.
- Hemodialysis showed better renal function outcomes but no significant difference in complications.

## Abstract

End‐stage renal disease (ESRD) is a severe condition that necessitates dialysis. Dialysis treatments, including hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis, can affect various organs, including the brain, leading to potential cognitive decline. This study investigates the neurological effects and brain network reorganization in ESRD patients undergoing different dialysis methods.

A total of 120 ESRD patients were randomly divided into two groups: 60 patients undergoing hemodialysis and 60 undergoing peritoneal dialysis. Patients were followed for 1 year. Neuropsychological scales assessed cognitive function, and MRI scans were used to analyze brain structure and functional network dynamics before and after dialysis. Laboratory indicators and clinical outcomes were also recorded.

Both dialysis methods improved renal function, but peritoneal dialysis showed more favorable effects on cognitive function, with higher MMSE and MOCA scores. MRI analysis revealed better functional brain network efficiency in the peritoneal dialysis group. No significant differences were observed in the incidence of complications between the two groups.

Although hemodialysis showed better renal function outcomes, peritoneal dialysis was associated with better cognitive performance and brain network reorganization. Both methods were safe, but peritoneal dialysis may offer neuroprotective benefits over hemodialysis in ESRD patients.

National Health Insurance Medical Research Registration and Filing Information System: MR‐46‐22‐012452

Hemodialysis outperforms peritoneal dialysis in renal clearance and enhances brain default mode network activity, suggesting dual benefits of renal function improvement and neuroprotection.