Dial

Dialysis is a medical procedure that helps to perform the functions of the kidneys when they are failing or have failed. It is a life-saving treatment for people with End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) or chronic kidney disease.

Types of Dialysis

There are two main types of dialysis: Hemodialysis and Peritoneal Dialysis.

Hemodialysis

In hemodialysis, the blood is pumped out of the body to an artificial kidney machine and returned to the body by tubes that connect the patient to the machine.

Peritoneal Dialysis

In peritoneal dialysis, the patient's blood is cleaned inside the body. The doctor places a plastic tube into the patient's abdomen to make an access. During the treatment, the patient's abdominal area (peritoneal cavity) is slowly filled with dialysate through the catheter.

Procedure

The dialysis procedure needs to be performed multiple times a week and each session lasts for about four hours. The frequency and duration of the sessions depend on the individual's kidney function and body size.

Risks and Complications

Like any other medical procedure, dialysis also has potential risks and complications. These may include infection, low blood pressure, muscle cramps, itching, sleep problems, anemia, bone diseases, depression, and pericarditis.

Preparation for Dialysis

Before starting dialysis, the patient needs to undergo a minor surgery to create an access into their blood vessels. This can be done in one of three ways: an arteriovenous (AV) fistula, an AV graft, or a venous catheter.

Diet and Nutrition

Patients on dialysis need to follow a special diet to limit the build-up of waste products in the body. They may need to limit the intake of certain nutrients such as sodium, potassium, and phosphorus.

See Also

• Kidney Disease
• Chronic Kidney Disease
• End Stage Renal Disease
• Kidney Transplant