Things you should know about Dialysis

Dialysis is the process that purifying the blood of the body using a machine.

Doctors recommend Dialysis for patients whose kidneys cease to function efficiently. Dialysis is of two types: -Haemodialysis and Peritoneal Dialysis

Let us talk about types of Dialysis:

Type A- Haemodialysis:

In this blood from the body is pumped out to a machine. It's made up of a membrane called dialyzer also called an artificial kidney. It functions the same as of kidney in removing waste from the body. The purified blood returns to the body via tubes. At any time only two cups of blood stay out in the machine for filtration.

Procedure:

To perform haemodialysis, an AV graft or Arteriovenous fistula is created surgically in the forearm or leg. So that blood can be accessed from the body to the dialyzer. The access point is well discussed with the patient prior to the surgery. It can be done anywhere like at home or maybe in hospitals during daycare. Depending upon the patient's lifestyle and medical needs, doctors discuss options and decide.

Type B- Peritoneal Dialysis:

In this, the internal lining of the abdomen acts as an artificial kidney. The internal membrane is rich with blood vessels and is known as the peritoneum.

This membrane is bathed in fluid, which helps in removing waste from the blood.

Peritoneal Dialysis is of two types:

Automated peritoneal dialysis:

In this, a machine(cycler) delivers and discards the cleansing fluid. It's done 4-5 times during the night while the patient is asleep.

CAPD:

During this dialysis, fluid is drained in the peritoneal cavity for hours where absorption of waste products takes place. This is repeated several times a day along with the normal routine. Hence it's known as Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal dialysis (CAPD)

What is the Procedure for doing Peritoneal Dialysis?

The patient undergoes surgery where a catheter is placed in the abdomen. After a week, stitches will be taken out and patients are taught how to take care of that region where a catheter is placed, also known as the exit side. How to clean it, dress it regularly and how do dialysis.

Now, the peritoneal cavity is filled with dialysis fluid of 1-3 litres via the catheter, which stays in for several hours before draining it out. This step where exchange happens is known as an exchange procedure, the waste product is eliminated and is drained into the fluid. Again, repeat the steps, by filling the peritoneal cavity with dialysis fluid. This should be done 4-5 times a day and takes around 30-45 minutes.

Doctors will prescribe other medicines as well with this dialysis, like vitamins, iron, blood pressure medications, and insulin if having diabetes.

What are the major complications of CAPD?

The major and common problem is the infection on the exit side. infection should be taken seriously, the moment some problem appears it should be treated straight away, and should not be delayed.

What precautions a patient should take?

• If the patient is doing it by himself, can be done anywhere at home, hotel room, office provided it's being done in a clean environment, and change exit side dressing regularly.
• Wash your hands before exchanging steps takes place, avoid dust, and pet animals at that moment.
• Heavy lifting should be avoided.
• Follow ups are necessary, to keep a check if peritoneal dialysis treatments are working efficiently.

How long does a patient have to undergo Dialysis?

Once kidneys have failed, patients need dialysis indefinitely. But yes, the patient can have a Kidney transplant.

Which is the best option for the patient: CAPD or Haemodialysis?

• Team of expert doctors and technicians: Our team have more than 12 years of extensive experience in handling patients with chronic kidney diseases.
• Most affordable Dialysis unit with state-of-the-art technology: The cost of dialysis in our centre is between 2600-3000 depending upon the type of dialysis the patient opt for.
• Personalised Care: Our centre is patient centric and we provide personalised care to every patient.

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