Dialysis

Overview

Dialysis is a life-sustaining treatment for patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) or kidney failure, helping to remove waste, excess fluids, and toxins from the blood when the kidneys can no longer function properly. We offer advanced dialysis care, ensuring optimal treatment outcomes and improved quality of life for our patients.

Types of Dialysis

1. Hemodialysis

Hemodialysis is the most common dialysis method, where a machine filters waste, salts, and excess fluids from the blood.

How it Works: Blood is drawn from the body, filtered through a dialyzer (artificial kidney), and returned to the body.
Treatment Schedule: Typically performed 3 times a week, each session lasting 3-5 hours.
Access Types: Arteriovenous (AV) fistula, AV graft, or central venous catheter.
Ideal for: Patients with end-stage kidney disease requiring long-term dialysis.

2. Peritoneal Dialysis

Peritoneal dialysis uses the body’s peritoneal membrane in the abdomen to filter blood internally.

How it Works: A sterile dialysis solution is introduced into the abdominal cavity through a catheter, where it absorbs waste and is later drained out.
Types:
- Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD): Performed manually 4-5 times a day.
- Automated Peritoneal Dialysis (APD): Uses a machine (cycler) to perform dialysis overnight.
Ideal for: Patients who want flexibility in their treatment and can perform dialysis at home.

Dialysis Access Procedures

A safe and effective dialysis treatment requires a proper access point:

Arteriovenous (AV) Fistula: A surgically created connection between an artery and vein, preferred for long-term hemodialysis.
AV Graft: A synthetic tube connecting an artery and vein, used when veins are not suitable for a fistula.
Central Venous Catheter: A temporary access placed in a large vein in the neck or chest for immediate dialysis.

When is Dialysis Needed?

Dialysis is required when kidney function drops below 10-15% of normal capacity, leading to:

Severe fluid retention and swelling
High levels of waste products in the blood (uremia)
Uncontrolled high blood pressure
Severe electrolyte imbalances
Difficulty breathing due to fluid overload

Benefits of Dialysis Treatment

Removes toxins and waste products
Controls blood pressure
Manages electrolyte balance
Reduces symptoms of kidney failure such as fatigue, nausea, and swelling
Improves overall quality of life

Supportive Care for Dialysis Patients

Nutritional Counseling: Diet plans to control sodium, potassium, and protein intake.
Anemia & Bone Health Management: Treatment for dialysis-related complications.
Dialysis Education Programs: Helping patients understand their treatment and make lifestyle adjustments.

Choosing the Right Dialysis Treatment

The best dialysis option depends on the patient’s condition, lifestyle, and medical history. Our nephrology team provides personalized guidance to ensure the best possible outcomes for each patient.

For patients requiring long-term dialysis, we also offer pre-transplant evaluations and kidney transplant services as an alternative treatment option.