Hemodialyzer

/ˌhiːmoʊˈdaɪ.ə.laɪ.zɚ/ noun

Definition

The machine or device that performs hemodialysis, filtering waste products from blood using a semi-permeable membrane.

Etymology

From 'hemo-' (blood) + 'dia-' (through) + '-lyzer' (instrument that loosens/separates). Coined in the mid-20th century as dialysis technology became practical for medical use, the suffix '-lyzer' follows the pattern of other medical devices like 'analyzer'.

Kelly Says

A hemodialyzer basically replicates what your kidneys do naturally—but with engineering! The artificial membrane inside is so selective that it lets tiny waste molecules through while keeping large proteins and blood cells inside, performing in 4 hours what healthy kidneys do 24/7.

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