Dialysis is a medical intervention used to treat kidney failure. Hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis are the two forms of dialysis that carry out the vital kidney function of removing waste and extra fluid from the blood. The Best Kidney Doctor is Dr. Sandeep Morkhandikar and can consult him if you need a Dialysis Specialist in Pune.

OVERVIEW

What is Dialysis?

Dialysis is a treatment for individuals with kidney failure. When kidneys fail, they can’t filter blood properly, leading to the buildup of waste and toxins in the bloodstream. Dialysis performs the kidney’s function, removing waste products and excess fluid from the blood.

Who Needs Dialysis?

People with kidney failure, or end-stage renal disease (ESRD), may require dialysis. Conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and lupus can damage kidneys, leading to kidney disease. Kidney failure can develop suddenly (acute) or be a long-term condition. In stage 5 kidney disease, kidneys function at 10% to 15% of their normal capacity, necessitating dialysis or a kidney transplant. Dialysis may be a temporary measure while waiting for a transplant.

How Kidney Function:

The kidneys, part of the urinary system, are two bean-shaped organs located below the ribcage on either side of the spine. They filter toxins from the blood, returning filtered, nutrient-rich blood to the bloodstream. The waste and extra water form urine, which moves from the kidneys to the bladder. Kidneys also help regulate blood pressure.

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. This process, lasting 3 to 5 hours, typically occurs in a hospital or dialysis center three times a week. Home hemodialysis is also an option, requiring treatments four to seven times a week for shorter sessions, sometimes conducted at night during sleep.

Before Hemodialysis:

A minor surgical procedure is performed to facilitate easier access to the bloodstream. This involves creating an arteriovenous (AV) fistula, where an artery and vein in the arm are connected, or an AV graft, using a soft tube to connect the artery and vein if they are too short. These methods enhance blood flow for dialysis. For urgent cases, a catheter may be placed in a vein in the neck, chest, or leg for temporary access. Patients are taught how to prevent infections and manage home hemodialysis if chosen.

During Hemodialysis:

• Blood is removed from a needle in the arm.
• Blood circulates through the dialyzer filter, transferring waste into a dialysis solution.
• Filtered blood is returned to the body through another needle in the arm.
• Blood pressure is monitored to adjust flow speed.

After Hemodialysis:

Some may experience low blood pressure, nausea, dizziness, or fainting. Other side effects include chest or back pain, headaches, itchy skin, muscle cramps, and restless legs syndrome.

Peritoneal Dialysis:

In peritoneal dialysis, tiny blood vessels in the abdominal lining (peritoneum) filter blood with the aid of a dialysis solution. This treatment occurs at home and can be done in two ways: automated peritoneal dialysis using a machine called a cycler or continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) manually.

Before Peritoneal Dialysis:

A minor surgical procedure is conducted about three weeks prior to start. A soft, thin catheter is inserted through the belly into the peritoneum, remaining permanently. Patients are instructed on performing peritoneal dialysis at home and preventing infections at the catheter site.

During Peritoneal Dialysis:

• Connect the catheter to one branch of a Y-shaped tube linked to a dialysis solution bag.
• Allow the solution to flow into the peritoneal cavity, then disconnect and cap the catheter.
• Continue daily activities while the solution absorbs waste and extra fluids.
• After 60 to 90 minutes, drain the fluid using the other branch of the Y-shaped tube into a clean bag.
• Repeat this process up to four times daily, with the solution remaining in the stomach overnight for those preferring nighttime treatment 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.

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Dialysis Specialists in Pune:

If you are seeking a Dialysis specialist in Pune, you can consult with Dr. Sandeep Morkhandikar the best nephrologist in Pune, who provides comprehensive care for all your kidney needs. From diagnosis and treatment to advanced procedures such as CAPD, APD, HDF, Kidney stone, HDF, and home hemodialysis. Ensuring high-quality care for patients with kidney Problems.