Peritoneal Dialysis

Peritoneal Dialysis

Peritoneal dialysis is a treatment that uses a thin natural membrane (called the peritoneum), which has a large number of blood vessels and covers the intestines inside the abdomen.

The peritoneal membrane will act as your haemodialysis filter; a special fluid called dialysate is fed into the peritoneal cavity, and will remain inside your abdomen for a few hours. The dialysate enters through a small tube called a catheter, which is inserted into the lower abdomen by means of minor surgery.

Once the dialysate has entered the cavity, blood is purified via the peritoneal membrane and the waste products flow out into the dialysate. After this, the dialysate (now laden with toxins) is drained off and replaced with fresh dialysate. When not in use, the catheter is sealed and concealed beneath your clothing.

This type of dialysis is usually performed at home or at work.

A special area will be required in the home, and the patient must never forget to perform a dialysate change.

The most widely-used peritoneal dialysis methods are:

CAPD (Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis): Dialysate is generally changed first thing in the morning, around lunch time and in the late afternoon. The last exchange takes place before going to bed. Every exchange takes about 30 minutes.

APD (Automated Peritoneal Dialysis): A large number of exchanges are carried out during the night, using a special machine known as a cycler, which fills and empties the peritoneum while the patient is asleep.

CAPD
APD