Ram Gokal (UK)

Dr. Ram Gokal is a UK nephrologist whose leadership, research, and practical innovations significantly advanced continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) in the United Kingdom and internationally. As Consultant Nephrologist at Manchester Royal Infirmary, he built one of the country’s largest CAPD programs, making home-based dialysis safer and more accessible through the adoption of user-friendly systems, including lightweight plastic bags and improved connection devices. Gokal also played a key role in translating icodextrin from laboratory development to clinical use, enhancing ultrafiltration for long-dwell exchanges. A prolific scholar, he co-edited major PD reference texts, including The Textbook of Peritoneal Dialysis, and published influential reviews shaping clinical practice and research priorities. Through mentorship, education, program development, and translational innovation, Gokal helped establish CAPD as a practical, widely used therapy and trained a generation of nephrologists who continue to advance PD worldwide.