Kidney Services
Overview
Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is a form of kidney dialysis used when your kidneys are unable to adequately remove waste products from your blood. Unlike the widely used hemodialysis, which filters blood externally, peritoneal dialysis works by introducing a cleansing fluid into your abdomen through a catheter. This fluid absorbs waste products through the peritoneum—the lining inside your abdomen—which acts as a natural filter. After a set period, the used fluid, now filled with waste products, is drained from the abdomen and replaced with fresh cleansing solution.
Peritoneal dialysis offers flexibility, as it can be done at home, while traveling, or even while working. However, not all kidney failure patients are suitable candidates for this procedure. It requires either a reliable caregiver or the ability to perform the procedure independently with manual dexterity at home. If you are looking for expert advice and treatment for peritoneal dialysis, you can consult Dr. Sandeep Morkhandikar, the best kidney doctor in Pune, at FertiProtect & SuperSpecialty Centre.
Why Dialysis is Done
Dialysis becomes necessary when your kidneys can no longer perform their essential function of filtering waste, excess fluid, and maintaining electrolyte balance in the blood. Kidney damage often develops over many years and can be caused by chronic conditions such as:
Diabetes
High blood pressure
Kidney inflammation (glomerulonephritis)
Polycystic kidney disease (PKD)
Hemodialysis
Hemodialysis is a process where blood is drawn from the body, filtered through a machine, and then returned to the body. This treatment is usually done in a healthcare facility like a dialysis center or hospital, but it may also be performed at home in some cases.
Peritoneal Dialysis
Peritoneal dialysis is another effective method for filtering your blood, offering several advantages over hemodialysis:
Greater flexibility and independence: Since peritoneal dialysis can be performed at home, it allows patients to continue their work, travel, or live far from a dialysis center.
Less restrictive diet: As peritoneal dialysis works more continuously than hemodialysis, it leads to less accumulation of potassium, sodium, and fluid, giving patients more freedom in their diet.
Longer-lasting kidney function: Patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis may preserve some kidney function longer compared to those on hemodialysis.
Choosing the Right Dialysis
Choosing the right type of dialysis is a personal decision that depends on several factors, including:
Kidney function
Overall health
Personal preferences
Home situation and caregiving support
Lifestyle
Peritoneal dialysis might be the best option for you if you:
Can’t tolerate the rapid fluid shifts of hemodialysis
Want to minimize disruption to your daily routine
Have some remaining kidney function
Desire to work or travel more freely
Peritoneal Dialysis Limitations
There are certain conditions that may make peritoneal dialysis unsuitable for some individuals. These include:
Extensive abdominal surgery or scars
A weakened abdominal muscle, such as in the case of a hernia
Lack of caregiving support or difficulty managing the process independently
Chronic inflammatory bowel disease or frequent diverticulitis
In some cases, peritoneal dialysis may eventually become less effective, and patients may need to switch to hemodialysis or undergo a kidney transplant.
Risks of Peritoneal Dialysis
As with any medical procedure, peritoneal dialysis carries certain risks, including:
Infections: Peritonitis, an infection of the abdominal lining, is a common complication. Infections can also occur at the catheter insertion site.
Weight gain: The dialysis fluid contains sugar (dextrose), which can be absorbed by the body, potentially leading to weight gain and high blood sugar levels, especially in those with diabetes.
Hernia: Long periods of fluid retention in the abdomen can put strain on the muscles, increasing the risk of hernia.
Inadequate dialysis: Over time, peritoneal dialysis may become less effective, and you may need to switch to hemodialysis.
For the best kidney care, consult Dr. Sandeep Morkhandikar, Kidney Doctor in Pune. He will guide you through the best treatment for any kidney problems.