Chinese Man Survived 13 Years Using Homemade Dialysis Machine

Chinese Man Survived 13 Years Using Homemade Dialysis Machine

A man in China reportedly survived for 13 years after building and operating his own dialysis machine at home when he could no longer afford hospital treatment.

Hu Songwen, from Nantong in Jiangsu Province, was diagnosed with uremia in 1993 while studying to become a meteorologist. He underwent hospital dialysis treatment for six years, but the cost eventually drained his family’s savings.

Facing limited options, Hu decided to create a homemade dialysis machine using kitchen utensils and old medical instruments. According to reports, each treatment session cost him about 60 yuan, a fraction of the amount charged by hospitals at the time.

The homemade device reportedly functioned like an external kidney. Blood was pumped from his arm through one tube into the machine, filtered through a membrane, and then returned to his body through another tube. He carried out the procedure three times a week.

Hu also prepared his own dialysis solution using purified water mixed with potassium chloride, sodium chloride, and bicarbonate.

Medical experts had reportedly warned him about the high risk of infection and complications associated with homemade dialysis systems. Despite the dangers, he continued using the machine for years in an effort to stay alive.

His story drew attention both within and outside China, with many viewing it as a powerful example of human determination and the harsh realities faced by patients struggling with the cost of long-term healthcare.

Observers say the case also highlights wider concerns about access to affordable medical treatment and the challenges faced by vulnerable patients worldwide.

Chinese Man Survived 13 Years Using Homemade Dialysis Machine