March 25, 2004 - Dialysis-related patents granted this week:

• 6,709,414 - System for determining blood flow rate in a vessel using diverted flow measurements
  
  
  
• 6,710,028 - Method for treating disturbances in iron metabolism using a combination of erythropoietin and iron
  
  
  
• 6,709,418 - Apparatus and methods for entering cavities of the body
  
  
  
• 6,708,944 - Flow control system and valve for controlling a fluid flow

Dialysis-related patent applications filed this week:

• 20040059314 - Multilumen catheter and methods for making the catheter
  
  
  
• 20040057949 - Hemodialysis method for improving immune system function
  
  
  
• 20040057885 - Apparatus and methods for preparation of a peritoneal dialysis solution
  
  
  
• 20040058895 - Multi-use vessels for vitamin D formulations
  
  
  
• 20040057037 - Blood treatment device and method for blood treatment