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2 Main Types Of Dialysis Explained

Mar 25, 2019

When kidneys stop working normally, treatment is needed to remove toxins and extra fluid from the blood. Dialysis is the most common way to treat end-stage renal disease. There are two general types of dialysis:

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Hemodialysis (HD)

Hemodialysis cleans your blood by sending it through an artificial kidney. This can be done at home or in a dialysis center.

  • During a surgical procedure, access is created to access your bloodstream

  • You and your doctor will determine if it’s best for you to perform treatments in the comfort of your home or in a staff-assisted dialysis center

  • Treatments begin by connecting your access to the dialysis equipment

  • A small amount of your blood travels out of your body and through a special machine with a filter

  • The filter removes waste and extra fluid from your blood; the cleaned blood returns to your body

  • After treatment, you can feel tired and may need to rest until you feel better

  • At least once a month, you’ll meet with your care team at your dialysis center to discuss your health and well being

Peritoneal Dialysis (PD)

Uses the lining of your abdomen and a special solution to remove waste and extra fluid from your blood.

  • A flexible tube, called a catheter, is placed in your abdomen during a surgical procedure

  • A nurse trains you to perform these treatments by yourself

  • Treatments begin by connecting your catheter to the PD equipment

  • A special solution flows into your abdomen where it will stay for a while before being drained out. This is called an “exchange”

  • Initially, treatments are done manually. Once you are comfortable with this process, ask about trying machine assisted PD treatments

  • Supplies for your treatment are shipped to your home

  • Someone from your dialysis care team will schedule a home visit to see how you’re doing

  • At least once a month, you will meet with your care team at your dialysis center to discuss your health and well being

To learn more about finding a dialysis option that is right for your health and lifestyle, talk to your Satellite Healthcare social worker today.
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