CARPEDIEM expands treatment options for babies diagnosed with kidney failure before birth
HARTFORD, Conn. — When parents learn during pregnancy that their baby may be born with severe kidney failure, they are suddenly faced with difficult decisions and an uncertain future.
The state’s only pediatric health system has become the first and only center in New England to offer CARPEDIEM (Cardio-Renal Pediatric Dialysis Emergency Machine), an FDA-approved dialysis system designed specifically for newborns and infants who need dialysis shortly after birth. The technology expands treatment options for babies diagnosed with fetal renal failure and other serious kidney conditions and further strengthens Connecticut Children’s nationally recognized Fetal Care Center and pediatric nephrology programs.
Unlike traditional dialysis systems adapted from adult or older pediatric patients, CARPEDIEM was developed specifically for the smallest and most medically fragile newborns. The system allows physicians to precisely manage fluid balance and kidney support during the first days of life.
"Families facing a diagnosis of fetal renal failure are navigating one of the most difficult and emotional journeys imaginable," said Shannon R. Sullivan, President and CEO of Connecticut Children’s. "At Connecticut Children’s, we believe families deserve access to the most advanced pediatric care available, close to home and surrounded by a team that will walk alongside them every step of the way. CARPEDIEM is another example of our commitment to bringing innovative technologies to Connecticut so families don't have to leave the region to access highly specialized care. We are so very grateful to the Robert R. Rosenheim Foundation for the donation needed to bring this technology to our patient families."
Fetal Renal Failure: A Serious Condition
Fetal renal failure is a serious condition that can be identified during pregnancy through ultrasound. Some babies diagnosed with the condition may require dialysis soon after birth to support kidney function, maintain fluid balance, and stabilize their condition. These cases require extensive planning and coordination among maternal-fetal medicine specialists, neonatologists, nephrologists, urologists, and fetal care experts before a baby is even born.
For years, peritoneal dialysis has been the standard approach for newborns requiring kidney support. While it remains an important treatment option, there are situations when dialysis must begin sooner or when additional support is needed. CARPEDIEM provides physicians with another highly specialized tool during those critical moments.
"CARPEDIEM gives us a level of precision specifically designed for newborns and infants with severe kidney disease,” said Sherene Mason, MD, Division Head of Nephrology at Connecticut Children’s and the Robert R. Rosenheim Endowed Chair for Nephrology. “More importantly, it gives families another option at a time when options can feel limited. Being able to offer this technology as part of a coordinated fetal care and kidney care program allows us to provide highly specialized treatment from the moment a baby is born."
CARPEDIEM is another example of our commitment to bringing innovative technologies to Connecticut so families don't have to leave the region to access highly specialized care. We are so very grateful to the Robert R. Rosenheim Foundation for the donation...
Shannon R. Sullivan, President and CEO,
Connecticut Children's
A Multidisciplinary Approach for Families
Connecticut Children’s multidisciplinary Fetal Care Center works with families throughout pregnancy to develop individualized care plans, ensuring the right specialists, equipment, and treatments are in place before delivery. The addition of CARPEDIEM further strengthens that coordinated approach and positions Connecticut Children’s among a select group of pediatric centers nationwide offering this advanced capability.
For families, the benefit is simple: access to advanced, newborn-specific dialysis technology without having to leave home.
“Connecticut Children’s is constantly asking how they can expand what's possible for kids," said Michael Samartino, trustee for the Robert R. Rosenheim Foundation. "We were proud to offer our support when Dr. Mason shared this opportunity to give children the healthiest future possible and provide hope when families need it most."
About Connecticut Children’s Connecticut Children’s is the only health system in Connecticut 100% dedicated to kids. That means high-quality care across more than 30 pediatric specialties in 30+ locations throughout Connecticut, Eastern New York and Western Massachusetts. One team on a mission to improve access to healthcare from before birth and into adulthood. One team pushing the limits with breakthrough research and community partnerships so we can help you focus on what matters most: your family’s wellness journey. When you choose Connecticut Children’s, you can expect care beyond imagination.
