Sequential hypertonic dialysis (SHD) was studied in two binephrectomized children over a period of 6 weeks. Each dialysis session comprised four periods of 45 min. The concentration of sodium in the dialysate [Na(D)] during the first period was 190 mmol/l and during the second period 140 mmol/l. The sequence was then repeated. The sodium-free water clearance [C(ONa)] was calculated from the measurements of the ultrafiltrate clearance and of the sodium clearance. Despite the short periods of hypertonic dialysis, C(ONa) was positive, suggesting that water was removed from the intracellular compartment as well as from the extracellular fluid. The transfer of fluid from the intracellular space improved circulatory stability during rapid removal of large volumes of fluid by ultrafiltration. SHD was also associated with increased removal of potassium and phosphate. Comparison of clinical parameters before and during SHD showed a tendency towards increased sodium balance and the possibility of raised cardiovascular morbidity. SHD stabilized blood volume during ultrafiltration, encouraging removal of uraemic toxins. SHD with this level of Na(D) is only a study dialysis method.