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Dialysis is a medical procedure that is used to replace the normal functions of the kidneys when they are failed or damaged. The kidneys are responsible for filtering waste and excess fluid from the bloodstream. When the kidneys are no longer functioning properly, dangerous levels of fluid, electrolytes and toxins can build up in the body. Dialysis artificially performs these kidney functions through either hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis.
Hemodialysis
Hemodialysis is the most common type of dialysis therapy. It uses a machine and a special filter called a dialyzer or artificial kidney to clean blood. During a hemodialysis treatment, blood is pumped out of the body into the hemodialysis machine via a catheter inserted into an artery or vein. The blood goes through a dialyzer, which functions like an artificial kidney. The dialyzer acts as a filtration system, removing waste, extra salt and fluid from the blood before returning it to the body. Treatments usually last 3 to 5 hours and are typically done 3 times per week. Patients need vascular access, such as an arteriovenous fistula, graft or catheter, to connect to the dialysis machine for these multi-hour treatments.
Components of a Hemodialysis Machine
A hemodialysis machine consists of several components that work together to filter the blood and remove toxins. Here’s a brief overview of the main parts:
– Blood Pump – Uses an electric motor to slowly pump blood out of the body and through the dialyzer at a controlled rate.
– Dialysate Compartment – Holds a specially-formulated fluid called dialysate that draws toxins and waste from the blood during the dialysis process.
– Dialyzer – Acts as the artificial kidney by separating clean blood from used dialysate using a semi-permeable membrane. Waste and toxins flow from the blood through the membrane into the dialysate compartment.
– Dialysate Pump – Circulates fresh dialysate through the dialyzer compartment to maintain an optimal toxin removal gradient.
– Air Detector – Monitors for any air bubbles in the blood lines and alarms if present to prevent air embolisms.
– Disinfection Systems – Routinely disinfect and purify both the water and dialysate used in the machine.
– Touchscreen Control Panel – Allows the dialysis technician to monitor treatment parameters and disply alerts. Can be programmed for individual patient prescriptions.
Hemodialysis machines come in various sizes to handle anywhere from one treatment at a time to multiple simultaneous stations. Modern digital machines offer advanced monitoring and customizable treatment plans optimized for each patient’s needs.
Peritoneal Dialysis
While hemodialysis uses an external machine, peritoneal dialysis utilizes the inner lining of the abdomen called the peritoneum. A catheter is surgically placed in the abdomen to provide vascular access for dialysis. During treatment, a special dialysis fluid called dialysate is introduced into the abdominal cavity via the catheter. Wastes and extra fluid from the blood vessels surrounding the peritoneum diffuse across the peritoneal membrane into the dialysate fluid. The used dialysate is then drained from the abdomen and replaced with fresh solution.
There are two main types of peritoneal dialysis:
– Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD) – Uses manual exchanges of dialysate fluid several times per day. Patients disconnect and reconnect the catheter on their own schedule.
– Automated Peritoneal Dialysis (APD) – Uses a machine to automatically perform multiple dialysate exchanges overnight while the patient sleeps. This treatment, known as continuous cyclic peritoneal dialysis (CCPD), leaves the patient more free during the day.
Both peritoneal dialysis modalities rely on the natural peritoneal membrane instead of an external machine but still provide effective waste and toxin removal for patients. Peritoneal dialysis tends to be more convenient since patients can perform treatments at home and are not tied to a clinic schedule like hemodialysis. However, it does carry a higher risk of peritonitis from infection.
Mobile Dialysis Equipment
As dialysis extends lives, patients are understandably eager to travel. Several portable hemodialysis machines have been developed to help provide treatment in non-standard settings like hotels, cruise ships and remote areas. Small, self-contained machines can mimic full-sized equipment using single-use components. Batteries or generators power these units during transport. Mobile units have empowered more dialysis trips and vacations for those dependent on regular treatments. Some versions even allow in-home hemodialysis with the convenience of a light, compact design.
Telehealth Advancements
Telehealth devices and remote monitoring capabilities are enhancing dialysis care as well. New sensors in dialysis machines can wirelessly transmit treatment data to clinics and doctors for review between appointments. Mobile apps provide educational resources, prescription details and the ability to report issues immediately. Such connectivity improves oversight of dialysis quality and safety. It also strengthens patient-provider communication while reducing non-essential visits. As telehealth expands, more patients may eventually choose to do self-care or have treatments remotely proctored instead of attending in-center hemodialysis.
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1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
