Dialysis: Types, Procedure, Purpose, Complications, Side Effects
Treatment Duration
3 Hours
4 Hours
Treatment Cost
Rs 2500
Rs 5000
Kidneys are the vital organs of our human body performing various specialised functions, including controlling the volume of various body fluids, acid-base balance, electrolyte concentration and elimination of toxins from the body etc. In case of malfunctioning kidneys, the patient might face severe consequences such as chronic kidney disease (CKD). The only treatment for CKD is a kidney transplant or lifetime dialysis.
| Procedure Name | Dialysis |
| Alternative Name | Renal Replacement Therapy |
| Conditions Treated | Chronic Kidney Disease, Acute Kidney Injury, Nephritis, Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis, End Stage Kidney Disease |
|
Benefits of Procedure |
Enhances life quality, Improves cognitive function, Nutritional benefits |
| Treated By | Nephrologist |
Book Appointment for for Dialysis
What is Dialysis?
Dialysis is a medical procedure that aids in replacing the normal working of kidneys in people with non-functional kidneys. In this, the excess water, toxins, metabolic wastes and other solute substances are eliminated, and the blood is filtered. This technique is generally employed when 85-90% of the kidney function is lost.
Types of Dialysis
There are three major types of dialysis each of which are employed accordingly:
-
Hemodialysis
- In hemodialysis, a hemodialyser which is also known as an artificial kidney is utilised for the removal of excess fluids and waste from the body.
- The blood is passed through the hemodialyser outside the body, filtered and returned to the body via a dialysis machine. It is usually conducted a week thrice for 3 to 5 hours per session.
- The hemodialysis can be performed at a hospital, doctor’s clinic or dialysis centre. The duration of treatment might vary depending on the severity of the case.
-
Peritoneal dialysis (PD)
- The PD involves the implantation of a PD catheter into a patient's abdomen via surgery. The catheter tube aids the infiltration of blood through the peritoneum layer of the abdomen. During the process, dialysate flows through the peritoneum layer.
- This special fluid absorbs the waste and draws it out of the bloodstream. This process is required to be repeated several times a day.
-
Continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT)
- The CRRT is utilised for patients with acute renal failure in the ICU. The machine passes the blood via tubing for filtration.
- The purified blood is returned to the body. This process is usually conducted on a daily basis for 12-24 hours, varying accordingly.
Conditions treated with Dialysis
Dialysis is used to treat the following conditions:
- Chronic Kidney Disease
- Acute Kidney Injury
- Nephritis
- Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis
- End Stage Kidney Disease
Reasons for Kidney Failure
Usually, kidney failure is a consequence of several other serious health disorders that damage the kidneys over the years. Kidney failure is an end-stage of chronic renal disease. The most common reasons contributing to renal inadequacy are:
- Diabetes mellitus
- Hypotension
- Inherited diseases (Polycystic kidney disorder)
- Autoimmune diseases
- Nephrotic syndrome
- Age factor
- Inappropriate drug administration
- Urinary tract infections
Risks and Complications of Dialysis
Dialysis is a life-saving procedure. However, there are various risks associated with the process:
- Abdominal muscle weakening
- Hernia
- Weight gain
- Muscle cramps
- Anaphylaxis
- Weakening of bones
- Peritonitis (Infection in peritoneum layer)
- Irregular heartbeat
Cost of Dialysis
Usually, each hemodialysis treatment lasts about four hours and is done three times per week. Cost of each session ranges from about Rs.2500-Rs.5000.
| Procedure Name | Cost Value |
| Dialysis | Rs.2500-Rs.5000 |
Frequently Asked Questions on Dialysis
What is the difference between fistulas and grafts?
Although fistulas take two to six weeks to mature whereas grafts are ready in two to six weeks, surgeons prefer to use fistulas because they are stronger and have a lower risk of infection than grafts. However, when a patient has narrow, clogged, or damaged veins, a transplant is recommended.
What are some of the potential side effects of dialysis?
While dialysis is a safe operation, it does come with many problems and dangers. Itching, sleep issues, joint discomfort, and muscle cramping are some of the less significant symptoms. Others, such as high or low blood pressure, infection at the location, pericarditis, anaemia, and high potassium levels, are more harmful.
Should a dialysis patient be given particular attention?
Yes, washing hands, surgical masks, using antiseptic wipes and checking supplies to assure cleanliness are all critical steps. It's done to prevent infection for both the patient and the health care staff involved. The patient must also follow a particular diet that is high in protein and low in potassium, phosphorus, and manage fluid consumption.
Is dialysis ever used for a short period?
Yes, there are a few situations where dialysis is only required for a short time before kidney function restores. However, if dialysis is used to treat renal failure, it will be continued indefinitely or until the patient obtains a kidney transplant.
Is there any other successful treatment for renal failure other than dialysis?
More Treatment options
Expert Doctors for Dialysis
 max smart)
 Debabrata Mukherjee max ggn)
NABH Accredited Hospitals for Dialysis
