Peritoneal Dialysis
by
Editorial Staff And Contributors DefinitionDialysis is a treatment that takes over the job of your kidneys if they fail. The kidneys have many functions that help your body stay healthy. They help clear toxins out of your blood and help your body balance salt levels. Most people begin dialysis when their kidneys have lost 85%-90% of their ability. You may be on dialysis for a short time, you may need it for the rest of your life, or until you receive a kidney transplant. If you have kidneys that are not working and the damage is not reversible, you have end-stage renal disease (ESRD). ESRD is caused by conditions such as diabetes, kidney cancer, drug use, high blood pressure, or other kidney problems. Dialysis is not a cure for ESRD, but it does help you feel better and live longer. There are 2 types of dialysis: hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis. This fact sheet will focus on peritoneal dialysis. Reasons for Procedure TOPThe main functions of peritoneal dialysis are to:
Possible Complications TOPProblems from the procedure are rare, but all procedures have some risk. Your doctor will review potential problems, like:
Before your procedure, talk to your doctor about ways to manage factors that may increase your risk of complications such as: What to Expect TOPPrior to ProcedureBefore the first treatment, a small, soft tube about 24 inches long will be placed in the abdomen. This tube will remain there permanently. A portion of the tube remains outside the body for use in the process. It is important to keep this access clean and dry to prevent infection. Description of the ProcedurePeritoneal dialysis can often be done at home. The abdominal lining is called the peritoneal membrane. It is used to filter blood. A cleansing solution, called a dialysate, is inserted into your abdominal cavity through a tube. Fluid, wastes, and chemicals pass from the tiny blood vessels in the peritoneal membrane into the dialysate. The dialysate is drained after several hours. New dialysate can be added to repeat the process. There are 3 types of peritoneal dialysis:
How Long Will It Take? TOPThe time needed for peritoneal dialysis depends on a few factors:
The approximate time and frequency of each type:
Will It Hurt? TOPIn general, peritoneal dialysis does not cause pain. Post-procedure Care TOPBe sure to follow your doctor’s instructions. There are some special considerations. Dietary GuidelinesCertain dietary guidelines should be followed. This will help to maintain overall health and optimize treatment effects. Talk to your doctor about your specific dietary needs. MedicationsYour doctor may give you various medications. These include, but are not limited to:
Call Your Doctor TOPContact your doctor if any of the following occur:
If you think you have an emergency, call for emergency medical services right away. RESOURCES:Kidney Dialysis Foundation http://www.kdf.org.sg National Kidney Foundation http://www.kidney.org References:
Dialysis. National Kidney Foundation website. Available at:
https://www.kidney.org/atoz/content/dialysisinfo. Accessed June 1, 2016.
Peritoneal dialysis dose and adequacy. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Updated September 2010. Accessed June 1, 2016. Last reviewed June 2016 by Adrienne Carmack, MD Last Updated: 5/28/2014 |
|||||||||||||
EBSCO Information Services is fully accredited by URAC. URAC is an independent, nonprofit health care accrediting organization dedicated to promoting health care quality through accreditation, certification and commendation. This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition. To send comments or feedback to our Editorial Team regarding the content please email us at healthlibrarysupport@ebsco.com. Our Health Library Support team will respond to your email request within 2 business days. |