What Is Dialysis?

Dialysis is a medical procedure that performs the essential functions of the kidneys—filtering toxins, balancing electrolytes, and removing excess fluid—when the kidneys can no longer do so on their own.

• Hemodialysis: Blood is filtered through a machine using a dialyzer (artificial kidney) and then returned to the body.
• Peritoneal Dialysis: A special fluid is introduced into the abdominal cavity to absorb waste through the peritoneal membrane, which is then drained out.

Why Is Dialysis Needed?

Dialysis becomes necessary when the kidneys lose about 85-90% of their function. Common causes include:

• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• Polycystic kidney disease
• Glomerulonephritis
• Recurrent urinary tract infections or obstructions

Signs You May Need Dialysis

• Severe fatigue or weakness
• Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet
• Nausea or vomiting
• Difficulty concentrating or mental confusion
• Shortness of breath due to fluid buildup
• Persistently high blood pressure not responding to medication

Hemodialysis: The Standard Approach

In hemodialysis, your blood is pumped out of your body to a dialysis machine and back through a dialyzer. It typically requires:

• Access to blood vessels through a fistula, graft, or catheter
• 3 sessions per week, each lasting about 3–5 hours
• Care at a hospital or dialysis center, or sometimes at home

High-Flux vs. Low-Flux Dialysis

Low-Flux Dialysis

• Removes only small waste molecules
• Less efficient in filtering middle and large-sized toxins

High-Flux Dialysis

• Uses a high-permeability membrane
• Filters both small and large waste molecules
• Reduces complications like inflammation and dialysis-related amyloidosis
• Improves quality of life and long-term outcomes

Advantages of High-Flux Dialysis

• Superior toxin clearance
• Lower risk of cardiovascular complications
• Improved comfort and well-being
• Bridge to kidney transplant

At our center, we offer state-of-the-art high-flux dialysis machines to ensure safe, effective care.

Role of the Nephrologist

Your nephrologist is key to managing kidney disease and selecting the right treatment. Dr. Debabrata Mukherjee evaluates each patient’s:

• Kidney function
• Overall health
• Lifestyle preferences
• Co-existing conditions

This ensures that you receive the most effective, personalized care possible.

Dialysis Is Not the End – It’s a New Beginning

With the right treatment plan, patients on dialysis can live full, active lives. Dialysis also serves as a bridge to a kidney transplant for eligible candidates.

Conclusion

Dialysis replaces essential kidney functions and supports better quality of life. Whether high-flux or peritoneal, our expert team is here to help every step of the way.

Contact Our Nephrology Expert

Email: dirnephro@gmail.com

For Appointments Contact: Sanchita at +91 9599471244