New renal unit set up at Al Ain Hospital

The Al Ain Hospital has added a new renal unit to its nephrology department in a bid to offer enhanced facilities to a growing number of patients with kidney-related problems. The department, which was running a single unit until recently, now has two units fully equipped to provide comprehensive care to patients suffering from any kidney disorder, said a spokesperson of the hospital. George Jepson, CEO of Al Ain Hospital, said occurrence of disorders related to hypertension is high in the city and the enhancement of capabilities at the Nephrology Department is a blessing to the residents. Hypertension is a leading cause of kidney problems. "Both the units now offer the full range of renal care, early detection, diagnosis, management and prevention of all kidney diseases," said Jepson. Professor Gerhard Schwab, Medical Director of Al Ain Hospital, said the hospital has performed more than 15 kidney biopsies, and more than 120 patients were admitted since the beginning of the year.Some 700 people also received treatment as out-patients at the nephrology and hypertension department.The specialities of the department, he said, are treatment of glomerulonephritis (like lupus nephritis), secondary hypertension, electrolytes troubles, kidney stones and pre- and post-kidney transplant care.The department also works in tandem with the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) team to provide specialist services, including the management of patients with acute kidney impairment. From / Gulf News