A cross-sectional comparative analysis of quality of life and cost-effectiveness for retrospective dialysis and kidney transplant patients

Dialysis, including hemodialysis (HD) and peritoneal dialysis, is initiated when kidney function deteriorates to a glomerular filtration rate below the normal range. In addition, dialysis manages renal failure through diffusion and ultrafiltration but does not completely replace kidney function. Conversely, kidney transplantation involves replacing a diseased kidney with a healthy donor kidney, offering restored kidney function and improved quality of life (QoL). Herein, this review compares the QoL and cost-effectiveness of dialysis versus kidney transplantation for patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Transplant recipients generally report better physical and mental well-being, higher independence, and greater overall life satisfaction compared to dialysis patients. Economically, kidney transplantation, despite its high initial costs, proves more cost-effective in the long run due to reduced ongoing healthcare expenses. Dialysis, particularly in-center HD, incurs higher long-term costs. The findings advocate prioritizing kidney transplantation for eligible ESRD patients while also emphasizing the need for improved support for dialysis patients.