Dialysis is a life-saving treatment for patients with kidney failure, but it can be a bit confusing to figure it all out in the beginning. Here’s what you need to know about the two main types of dialysis in Lighthouse Point and how they work.
What Is Hemodialysis?
Hemodialysis is an ongoing procedure that occurs three to five times a week, and each treatment takes about four hours. Hemodialysis works by using a dialysis machine and a filter referred to as an artificial kidney or dialyzer to clean your blood. This process typically occurs at a dialysis center or hospital.
Hemodialysis requires minor surgery to create an access point, typically in your arm, connecting the permanent portal to a vein and an artery. The dialyzer connects to this portal and washes away waste products from your blood, then returns the now filtered blood back to your body.
Home hemodialysis is possible as well, depending whether your renal specialist says it’s safe for you and suits your specific lifestyle.
What Is Peritoneal Dialysis?
Peritoneal dialysis is another ongoing procedure, but this type of dialysis can be performed at home and even while you go about your day. A peritoneal catheter is placed into your stomach via laparoscopic surgery and uses the inside lining as a filter instead of an artificial kidney.
During peritoneal dialysis, the blood is washed and flushed with the same fluid used for hemodialysis, called dialysate. This fluid flows through the catheter into part of your abdomen where the peritoneum, the lining of your abdomen, acts as a filter and removes waste from your blood.
After a set time, the fluid flows out through the catheter to be safely discarded, carrying the waste products in your blood with it. This type of dialysis tends to have fewer restrictions and is suitable for patients who meet certain requirements.
Call Our Kidney Experts to Learn More About the Types of Dialysis in Lighthouse Point!
Interested in learning more about the types of dialysis in Lighthouse Point and which one is right for you or a loved one? Contact our team of experts today at 754-307-9256 for outstanding kidney care!