Abstract
The evolution of hemodialysis in Naples reflects a remarkable journey from medieval medical practices to modern therapeutic interventions.
In medieval Naples, Galenic medicine (129–200 AD) advocated that diseases arose from imbalances in the four humors – blood, phlegm, yellow bile, and black bile. This led to practices such as venesection and cupping to “purify” the blood. By the late 19th century, the understanding of blood purification began to shift towards more scientific approaches. The concept of dialysis emerged as a revolutionary technique for treating kidney failure, drawing parallels to Galen’s metaphor of washing a dirty pot.
Possibly the first hemodialysis in Naples has been set up by the urologist Francesco Sorrentino. In 1951 at the “Ospedali Riuniti” he used the first hemodialysis system, a device similar to that of Louis Bartrina. In 1959-1960 V Andreucci, who later came to work in Naples, collaborated in the School of L. Migone (1912-2002) in Parma, on the dialysis treatment of patients with acute renal failure. In the same period, Carmelo Giordano introduced the hemodialysis for acute patients in 1960 and Pompeo Sorice at the “Vecchio Pellegrini” hospital hosted the first chronic hemodialysis treatment in 1968.
In Naples, this transition became evident as early attempts at dialysis were made in the mid-20th century, culminating in the development of modern hemodialysis techniques. The introduction of Membrane Controlled Osmosis (MCO) filters marked a significant advancement, allowing for more efficient removal of waste products from the blood while minimizing complications. By the 1970s, MCO filters had become standard in clinical practice, enhancing patient outcomes significantly.
This historical trajectory highlights not only the advancements in medical technology but also the enduring influence of ancient medical theories. The journey from medieval bloodletting practices to sophisticated hemodialysis systems, such as the use of High-Flux and MCO filters in the early 2000s, illustrates a broader narrative of medical evolution – where past beliefs inform present innovations, ultimately improving patient care in Naples and beyond.
The history of hemodialysis in Naples reflects a remarkable evolution, tracing roots from the humoral theories of Galenic medicine to the development of cutting-edge technology in renal care. This journey exemplifies Naples’ role in the history of medicine, highlighting a profound transformation in understanding and treating renal disease through scientific innovation while respecting its historical roots.
Keywords: hemodialysis, MCO filters, hemodiafiltration