Peritoneal dialysis is a treatment option providing greater control and independence for people with kidney failure. The kidneys are responsible for removing extra fluid and wastes from your body. When kidneys fail, levels of waste products and minerals build up in the blood. The volume of fluid in your body is also affected along with the number of oxygen carrying red blood cells. The accumulation of waste in the blood creates a life threatening situation that requires long-term treatment.
During Peritoneal dialysis, a special solution is introduced into the abdominal cavity. This dialysis solution uses the sugar dextrose to pull waste and extra fluid through the membrane lining the abdomen called the peritoneum.
The dialysis solution containing excess fluid, minerals and other waste products is then drained from the abdomen. This process is repeated several times and allows kidney failure patients to lead a more normal life without the need or restrictions of hemodialysis treatment.
Types of Peritoneal Dialysis
Peritoneal dialysis allows you to make choices for treatment that suit your lifestyle and minimizes the disruption caused by your illness. Treatment options are based on whether or not you chose to use a machine or cycler to control filling and emptying of the abdomen.
Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis
Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis uses gravity, body movement and extended dwell time where the solution sits in the abdomen. Using this technique, you drain fresh dialysis solution into the abdomen and continue with your daily activity. After 4 or 5 hours the solution is drained and discarded. This is usually repeated several times during the day as well as an extended session while you sleep.
Continuous Cycler-Assisted Peritoneal Dialysis
Continuous cycler-assisted or automated peritoneal dialysis uses a machine to fill and empty the abdomen while you sleep. This is often coupled with a single ambulatory peritoneal dialysis that is left in the abdomen for the entire day.
Peritoneal Dialysis Catheter Insertion
The Surgeons at Surgical Consultants of Hollywood are experts in placing peritoneal dialysis catheters for kidney failure. In some cases, the catheter can be inserted using local anesthetic and a minimum of time away from normal activity.
The peritoneal dialysis catheter is a soft, flexible tube that is placed close to your navel (belly button) and guided into the peritoneal cavity. The tube has many holes in it to allow fluid to pass in and out of it easily.
Over time, the polyster cuffs of the catheter merge with the scar tissue at the insertion point to hold it in place.