Independent Dialysis

What is peritoneal dialysis?

Instead of a dialysis machine, peritoneal dialysis filters waste using the lining of your abdomen. Dialysis fluid enters the abdominal cavity through a small tube. Waste products move across the peritoneal membrane from the blood into the dialysis fluid. The waste products are then removed from the body when the fluid drains out. This means your blood is cleaned inside the body.

Peritoneal dialysis is usually done at home and is a good option if:

• You wish to dialyze independently at home.
• You want the freedom to travel.
• You are afraid of needles.
• You live in a remote area where there is no hemodialysis service.
• You are not a candidate for vascular access or have major heart problems.

One of the benefits of peritoneal dialysis is that you can clean your blood more often. You can also clean it for longer periods of time.

Preparing for peritoneal dialysis

Before you can start, you will need a small tube called a catheter inserted in your abdomen. The catheter is a thin, soft plastic tube that carries the dialysis solution in and out of your abdomen.

A doctor will insert the catheter during a minor surgical procedure that takes about 45 minutes. The end of the catheter sticks out on the side of your abdomen. It takes at least two weeks for the catheter site to heal before you can begin peritoneal dialysis.

You will need training on how to dialyze on your own. Our team will provide education and training to you and your family. The procedure is easy to learn. It usually takes one to two weeks for you to be able to perform the treatment by yourself. The team will help you order equipment and supplies that will be delivered to your home.

What is home hemodialysis?

If you are stable and meet certain criteria, you may be able to have home hemodialysis. That means you have hemodialysis equipment in your home and you manage your own dialysis treatments. There are benefits, including the option for more frequent and/or longer treatments.

Preparing for home hemodialysis

Before you begin at home hemodialysis, you must attend six to eight weeks of training, three times per week. Training is provided at St. Paul's Hospital.

Your home may also need some plumbing and electrical modifications for the dialysis machine. These are all done at no cost to you. The Home Hemodialysis team will help arrange the modifications. They will also provide and deliver all equipment and dialysis supplies to your home.

The home hemodialysis team includes nurses, nephrologists (kidney specialists), pharmacists, dietitians, social workers, administrative and program staff.