Peritoneal Dialysis

Peritoneal dialysis is a process of removing the waste from the blood when the kidney fails to do their job. This treatment uses a lining or peritoneum of your abdomen to filter your blood inside your body. These treatments are done more frequently for kidney failure patients to remove the waste and toxins from your blood. Peritoneal dialysis can be carried out at home, at work, or on trips, but needs proper care and attention.

When peritoneal dialysis necessary?

The doctor will recommend the peritoneal dialysis when the patient fails with hemodialysis and who are suffering from 90% kidney failure. Peritoneal dialysis will be highly recommended for patients who are suffering from acute renal(kidney) diseases. This is also preferable when the patient has polycystic kidney conditions.

Who needs peritoneal dialysis ?

The people who are suffering from different types of kidney problems which include

  • Kidney failure
  • Renal disease
  • Previous failed surgical history
  • Comorbid conditions
  • Unexplained shortness of breath
  • Unexpected swelling around legs, ankles, and feet, etc.
  • Vascular access failure

Why peritoneal dialysis ?

Peritoneal dialysis is needed if your kidneys do not function properly. Kidney failure generally occurs and gradually increases by years. The reasons for kidney failure may include

  • Ureter blockages
  • High Blood pressure
  • Renal artery blockages
  • Kidney inflammation
  • Multiple cysts in the kidney
  • Diabetes

How is peritoneal dialysis performed ?

  • This Peritoneal dialysis process uses the thin lining of the abdomen called the peritoneum as a filter.
  • A cleaning fluid called dialysate is cycled into a thin, flexible tube called a Peritoneal dialysis catheter into the patient’s abdomen.
  • The dialysate collects excess waste and unhealthy substances in the abdominal lining from the blood vessels into the peritoneal cavity, where it remains in the abdomen for a specified period of time.
  • The Peritoneal dialysis machine then drains the fluid out of the abdomen and into a drain or waste bag, and the excess wastes and liquids are removed from the body.
  • Then, to disinfect the blood again, the fresh dialysate solution is sent back into the peritoneum.
  • This process repeats continuously until the waste from blood got completely drained.

Advantages of Peritoneal Dialysis:

  • Fewer side-effects compare to all other dialysis procedures
  • Provides continuous therapy which acts as natural kidneys
  • Can allow for fewer dietary restrictions
  • Minimally invasive treatments
  • No need to stay in the hospital for a longer period
  • No need to travel to dialysis centres for treatment procedures
  • Greater flexibility and freedom in your treatment schedule
  • Can be done at anytime
  • Easy to manage in-home and community health care facilities
  • May allow better blood pressure and cardiovascular benefits
  • Lowers risk of Hepatitis C
  • Equal or better survival in the early years

Compared to all other dialysis problems, peritoneal dialysis is the most effective treatment for chronic kidney problems. Ask the dialysis treatment staff if you have any queries about Peritoneal treatment or how to handle the transfers. If you find any signs of illness, immediately call your surgeon now.