Dialysis is a critical medical treatment used to assist individuals with kidney failure. It substitutes the natural function of the kidneys by removing waste, toxins, and excess fluids from the bloodstream, which is vital when the kidneys can no longer perform these functions effectively. Dr. Sandeep Morkhandikar is considered one of the best kidney doctors and dialysis specialists in Pune, offering exceptional care for patients requiring dialysis.

OVERVIEW

What is Dialysis?

Dialysis is a medical procedure for individuals who have kidney failure. When the kidneys lose their ability to filter blood efficiently, harmful waste products and excess fluids accumulate in the body. Dialysis takes over the kidney’s role by cleaning the blood, removing waste, and restoring the balance of fluids.

Who Needs Dialysis?

People with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) may require dialysis to survive. This can occur due to chronic conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, or lupus, which gradually damage the kidneys. In the final stage of kidney disease (stage 5), kidneys only function at 10-15% of their normal capacity, making dialysis or a kidney transplant necessary. Dialysis can also serve as a temporary solution while waiting for a transplant.

How Kidney Function:

The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs located below the ribcage, responsible for filtering waste, balancing fluids, and regulating blood pressure. They filter the blood, removing waste and excess fluids, which are then excreted as urine. The kidneys also help in maintaining electrolyte balance in the body.

Procedure Details: Types of Dialysis

There are two main types of dialysis: hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis.

Hemodialysis:

In hemodialysis, a machine removes blood from the body, filters it through a dialyzer (artificial kidney), and returns the cleaned blood. The procedure typically lasts 3 to 5 hours and occurs three times a week at a hospital or dialysis center. Alternatively, home hemodialysis can be done, requiring four to seven shorter sessions per week, sometimes even at night while the patient sleeps.

Before Hemodialysis:

To facilitate access to the bloodstream, a minor surgery is performed to create an arteriovenous (AV) fistula, which connects an artery and vein in the arm. In some cases, a graft may be used, or a catheter may be temporarily inserted into a vein for urgent treatment.

During Hemodialysis:

Blood is drawn from the body, passes through the dialyzer, where waste and excess fluids are removed, and the clean blood is returned to the body. Blood pressure is carefully monitored to regulate the flow.

After Hemodialysis:

Patients may experience side effects like dizziness, low blood pressure, headaches, muscle cramps, or back pain. Most of these symptoms are temporary and resolve after the treatment.

Peritoneal Dialysis:

Peritoneal dialysis uses the peritoneum (the lining of the abdominal cavity) as a filter to clean the blood with the help of a dialysis solution. This type of dialysis is typically performed at home and can be done manually (Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis – CAPD) or with the help of a machine (Automated Peritoneal Dialysis – APD).

Before Peritoneal Dialysis:

A soft catheter is surgically placed into the abdomen to allow for the easy flow of dialysis solution. This procedure is done a few weeks before starting the treatment.

During Peritoneal Dialysis:

The catheter is connected to a dialysis solution bag, allowing the solution to flow into the abdomen. The solution stays in the abdomen for a specific period, absorbing waste and excess fluid, and is then drained into a clean bag. This process may be repeated up to four times a day or overnight using an automated cycler.

After Peritoneal Dialysis:

The fluid in the abdomen may cause a bloated or full sensation, but the treatment is generally not painful. The stomach may appear more distended when filled with the dialysis solution.

Request a Callback: 

If you need a Dialysis Specialist in Pune, Dr. Sandeep Morkhandikar is one of the top nephrologists who specializes in kidney care. He offers a range of services, including diagnosis, treatment of kidney diseases, and advanced procedures like CAPD, APD, Home Hemodialysis, and more. Dr. Morkhandikar provides comprehensive care to patients with kidney issues, ensuring the best possible outcome.