Dialysis Treatment Options
Dialysis is a medical treatment that replaces some of the functions of the kidneys when they fail. There are several types of dialysis treatments available, each with unique benefits and considerations.
Medical Emergency
If you are experiencing severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, excessive bleeding from dialysis access, or confusion, please call 911 or your local emergency number immediately. This website provides informational content only and is not a substitute for medical advice or emergency services.
Major Dialysis Treatment Modalities
Hemodialysis
Hemodialysis uses a machine to filter waste and excess fluid from the blood when the kidneys can no longer perform this function. This treatment is typically done three times per week for about 3-5 hours per session.
How Hemodialysis Works
- Blood is removed from the body through a vascular access (fistula, graft, or catheter)
- Blood flows through a dialyzer (artificial kidney), which filters out waste and excess fluid
- Cleaned blood is returned to the body
Hemodialysis Setting Options
- In-Center Hemodialysis: Performed at a dialysis center under the supervision of healthcare professionals, typically three times per week for 3-5 hours.
- In-Center Nocturnal Hemodialysis: Longer treatments performed overnight at a dialysis center, allowing for a more gentle dialysis process.
- Home Hemodialysis: Performed in the comfort of your home, often with more flexible scheduling options, including more frequent but shorter sessions.
Benefits of Hemodialysis
- Effective removal of waste products and excess fluid
- Professional supervision (for in-center treatment)
- Structured schedule
- Social interaction with other patients and staff at centers
Considerations
- Requires vascular access (fistula, graft, or catheter)
- Travel to and from treatment center (for in-center dialysis)
- Potential for post-dialysis fatigue
- More restrictive diet and fluid limitations compared to daily treatments
Peritoneal Dialysis (PD)
Peritoneal dialysis uses the lining of your abdomen (peritoneum) as a natural filter. A special solution (dialysate) is introduced into the abdominal cavity through a permanently placed catheter. The solution absorbs waste and excess fluid, which is then drained out.
Types of Peritoneal Dialysis
- Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD): Manual exchanges performed throughout the day, typically 4-5 times. Each exchange takes about 30-40 minutes, and dialysate remains in the abdomen for 4-6 hours between exchanges.
- Automated Peritoneal Dialysis (APD): Uses a machine called a cycler to perform exchanges automatically, usually overnight while you sleep. The machine performs multiple exchanges over 8-10 hours.
Benefits of Peritoneal Dialysis
- Can be performed at home, at work, or while traveling
- Offers greater independence and flexibility
- No need for needles
- More continuous treatment that more closely resembles natural kidney function
- Often allows for a more liberal diet and fluid intake
- Preserves residual kidney function longer in some cases
Considerations
- Requires a permanent catheter in the abdomen
- Potential for infection (peritonitis)
- Requires clean space for exchanges
- Storage space needed for supplies
- Requires daily commitment
- May affect body image due to catheter and potential abdominal distension
Comparing Treatment Options
| Feature | In-Center Hemodialysis | Home Hemodialysis | Peritoneal Dialysis |
|---|---|---|---|
| Treatment Location | Dialysis center | Home | Home or other locations |
| Typical Schedule | 3 times/week, 3-5 hours | 3-6 times/week, 2-8 hours | Daily (CAPD) or nightly (APD) |
| Access Type | Fistula, graft, or catheter | Fistula, graft, or catheter | Peritoneal catheter |
| Independence Level | Low | Moderate to High | High |
| Travel Flexibility | Limited (requires arranging treatments at other centers) | Moderate (machine may be transportable) | High (supplies can be shipped) |
| Diet Restrictions | More restrictive | Moderately restrictive | Less restrictive |
Choosing a Dialysis Treatment
Selecting the right dialysis treatment depends on various factors, including:
- Medical condition: Some health issues may make certain dialysis types more appropriate
- Lifestyle: Work schedule, family responsibilities, and desire for independence
- Home environment: Space for equipment and supplies, cleanliness
- Support system: Availability of family or friends to assist with treatment
- Personal preferences: Comfort with self-care, needle phobia, etc.
Discuss these options with your nephrologist to determine which dialysis treatment is best suited for your specific situation. Many patients may switch between different types of dialysis throughout their treatment journey as their needs and circumstances change.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. This content is not reviewed by medical professionals and is simply an aggregation of information found online. This site makes no claim to be a medical expert, professional, or doctor in any way. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized medical advice about dialysis treatment options. In case of emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number.
Find Dialysis Centers
Use our directory to find dialysis centers offering different treatment modalities.