Kidney Dialysis

What is Dialysis?

Dialysis is a vital treatment method for patients suffering from kidney failure. When the kidneys are unable to filter toxins, excess water, and waste products from the blood, dialysis takes over this function, allowing the body to continue functioning properly. It helps maintain the body’s chemical balance, as well as fluid and electrolyte levels. Dialysis stands out as a life-enhancing treatment, performed using advanced medical technology.

How is Dialysis Performed?

Dialysis is carried out in two main ways: hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis.

Hemodialysis:

Hemodialysis uses a dialysis machine and a special filter (dialyzer) to clean the blood. During treatment, the patient's blood is drawn out through a tube connected to the machine and passed through the dialyzer, which acts as an artificial kidney. As the blood passes through, it is cleansed of toxins and excess fluid, and then returned to the body. Hemodialysis is typically performed three times a week, with each session lasting 3 to 5 hours. Patients usually receive treatment at a hospital or dialysis center, though home hemodialysis options are also available.

Peritoneal Dialysis:

Peritoneal dialysis uses the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) as a natural filter. In this method, a catheter is placed in the abdominal cavity, and a special dialysis fluid is introduced into the abdomen. Waste products and excess fluid move from the blood vessels into the peritoneal cavity, where they mix with the dialysis fluid. This fluid is then drained and replaced with fresh fluid. Peritoneal dialysis can be performed at home by the patient, offering a more flexible treatment option.