Peritoneal dialysis is a type of renal replacement therapy that uses the inner lining of the abdomen, known as the peritoneum, as a natural membrane to filter waste and fluids from the blood.
Kidney failure is a serious condition in which the kidneys lose their ability to properly filter waste and excess fluid from the bloodstream. This problem can stem from multiple causes such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or even hereditary diseases.
When a person’s kidneys stop functioning properly, it becomes necessary to resort to treatments that replace their function. One example is hemodialysis, and another is peritoneal dialysis.
What is peritoneal dialysis
Peritoneal dialysis is a procedure performed by introducing a solution known as dialysis fluid into the peritoneal cavity through a catheter.
This fluid absorbs toxins, metabolic waste, and excess water through the peritoneum; afterward, the fluid containing the waste is drained from the abdomen and replaced with a fresh, clean solution.
There are two main types of peritoneal dialysis:
- Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis: performed manually throughout the day, each dialysis cycle lasts between four and six hours, and the patient can carry out daily activities between sessions.
- Automated peritoneal dialysis: performed with the help of a machine known as a cycler and generally takes place while the patient sleeps at night.
Peritoneal dialysis offers greater flexibility and improved quality of life for many patients, as it is a procedure that can be done at home.
Peritoneal dialysis at home
Being able to perform peritoneal dialysis at home is one of its main advantages. It improves both the patient’s comfort and independence, but to make this possible, certain requirements and conditions must be met.
Before starting peritoneal dialysis at home, both the patient and their family members or caregivers must undergo thorough training to learn how to perform fluid exchanges, keep the catheter area clean and disinfected, and recognize signs of possible complications.
As part of this, it is essential that the patient has a clean, contaminant-free space to safely carry out exchanges—this is crucial to prevent infections.
Since it requires discipline and responsibility, it is important that the patient can follow medical instructions, carry out procedures correctly, and keep a treatment log.
Before any patient begins the process of peritoneal dialysis at home, a nephrologist must evaluate the candidate. This assessment considers their general health condition, ability to perform exchanges, and the presence of a support system.
Home peritoneal dialysis is especially beneficial for patients who live far from a medical center or who have difficulty traveling frequently.
Infected peritoneal dialysis catheter
An infected peritoneal dialysis catheter is a common complication but requires immediate medical attention. This type of infection can manifest through redness, swelling, and pain around the area where the catheter has been inserted.
There may also be pus or cloudy fluid from the insertion site; this is often accompanied by general discomfort, fever, and abdominal pain.
The most important step when suspecting a catheter infection is to contact the nephrologist or medical team immediately. Prompt intervention can prevent more serious complications such as peritonitis, which is a severe infection of the peritoneal cavity.
It is essential to avoid handling the catheter without specific medical instructions, as improper manipulation may worsen the situation. Depending on the severity, the doctor may proceed with treatments such as antibiotics or more specialized interventions.
While it is virtually impossible to prevent 100% of infections, it is crucial to follow all hygiene and catheter care recommendations. This includes washing hands before any handling, using sterile materials, and keeping the catheter area clean and dry at all times.
Peritoneal dialysis is an effective and flexible option for the treatment of chronic kidney failure, providing many patients the opportunity to lead a more independent life by performing this type of procedure at home.
At the ABC Medical Center’s Internal Medicine Department, we can provide you with specialized care. Contact us!
Fuentes
NIH, Kidney Fund, Kids Health
