Dialysis is a procedure that replaces natural kidney function when kidneys fail. Most patients begin dialysis when their kidneys have lost 85% - 90% of their ability to function, and will continue dialysis for the rest of their life; this is called "end-stage renal disease" (ESRD). ESRD may be caused by a variety of conditions that can impair kidney function, including diabetes, kidney cancer, drug use, high blood pressure, or other kidney problems.
There are two types of dialysis: hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis.
Parts of the Body Involved
Hemodialysis: Veins in the arm, leg, or neck
Peritoneal dialysis: Abdomen
Reasons for Procedure
The purpose of dialysis is to help keep the bodys chemistry in balance, which the kidneys do when they are healthy. The main functions of dialysis are:
- Removing waste and excess fluid from the blood to prevent build-up
- Controlling blood pressure
- Keeping a safe level of chemicals in the body, such as potassium, sodium, and chloride
Dialysis may also be done to quickly remove toxins from the bloodstream, in cases of poisoning or drug overdose.
Risk Factors for Complications during the Procedure
Hemodialysis: Heart problems
Peritoneal dialysis:- Adhesions or significant abdominal scar tissue
- Abdominal hernia
- Diverticulitis
- Abdominal defects
Outcome
Dialysis helps maintain blood pressure, cleaning of the blood, and chemical and hormonal exchanges that are critical to survival.
Call Your Doctor If Any of the Following Occurs
- Signs of infection, including fever and chills
- Redness, swelling, increasing pain, excessive bleeding, or discharge at the catheter or tube insertion site
- Blood or cloudiness in the peritoneal dialysis fluid
- Nausea or vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Dizziness or weakness