Treatment Option

There are two types of dialysis that may be performed:

Peritoneal dialysis

Peritoneal dialysis is performed by surgically placing a special, soft, hollow tube into the lower abdomen. After the tube is placed, a special solution called dialysate is instilled into the peritoneal cavity. The peritoneal cavity is the space in the abdomen that houses the organs and is lined by two special membrane layers called the peritoneum. The dialysate is left in the abdomen for a designated period of time determined by  the physician. The dialysate fluid absorbs the waste products and toxins through the peritoneum. The fluid is then drained from the abdomen, measured, and discarded. There are two main types of peritoneal dialysis: continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD), and Automated Peritoneal Dialysis (APD).

CAPD does not require a machine. Exchanges can be done three to five times a day, during waking hours. APD requires the use of a special dialysis machine that can be used in the home. This type of dialysis is done automatically, even when asleep.

Haemodialysis

Haemodialysis can be performed at home, dialysis center or hospital by trained healthcare professionals. At home, haemodialysis is done with the help of a partner, often a family member or friend. If you choose to do home haemodialysis, you and your partner will receive special training. A special type of access, called an arteriovenous (AV) fistula, is placed surgically, usually, in your arm. This involves joining an artery and a vein together. After access is established, patient will be connected to a haemodialysis machine which drains the blood. Wastes and excess water will be passed out from the blood through the membrane into the dialysate through a process called diffusion before the ‘clean’ blood is returned to the bloodstream.

Haemodialysis is usually performed several times a week and lasts for four to five hours.