Dialysis system and methods

Abstract

Dialysis systems and methods are described which can include a number of features. The dialysis systems described can be to provide dialysis therapy to a patient in the comfort of their own home. The dialysis system can be configured to prepare purified water from a tap water source in real-time that is used for creating a dialysate solution. The dialysis systems described also include features that make it easy for a patient to self-administer therapy. For example, the dialysis systems include disposable cartridge and patient tubing sets that are easily installed on the dialysis system and automatically align the tubing set, sensors, venous drip chamber, and other features with the corresponding components on the dialysis system. Methods of use are also provided, including automated priming sequences, blood return sequences, and dynamic balancing methods for controlling a rate of fluid transfer during different types of dialysis, including hemodialysis, ultrafiltration, and hemodiafiltration.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A method of priming a tubing set of a dialysis system, comprising:
 removing the tubing set from a sterile shipping receptacle;   attaching the tubing set to the dialysis system;   priming the tubing set with a flow of fluid from the dialysis system to remove air from the tubing set; and   draining the fluid from the tubing set into the shipping receptacle.   
     
     
         2 . The method of  claim 1 , further comprising attaching the shipping receptacle to the dialysis system. 
     
     
         3 . The method of  claim 2 , wherein attaching the shipping receptacle further comprises engaging attachment features of the shipping receptacle with corresponding mechanical features on the dialysis system. 
     
     
         4 . The method of  claim 3 , wherein the mechanical features on the dialysis system are angled with respect to another so as to impose a curvature on one or more surfaces of the shipping receptacle to enlarge an opening of the shipping receptacle. 
     
     
         5 . The method of  claim 1 , further comprising draining the fluid from the tubing set into the shipping receptacle through a junction fitting that connects an arterial line of the tubing set to a venous line of the tubing set.