Peritoneal dialysis is a type of treatment for people with kidney failure, also known as end-stage renal disease (ESRD). It's an alternative to haemodialysis, which involves using a machine to clean the blood outside of the body.

SEHA Kidney Care (SKC) operate the largest peritoneal dialysis service in the UAE with over 120 patients currently maintained on this excellent alternative to haemodialysis which is done at home by patients or their carers at home.

In peritoneal dialysis, a special fluid called dialysate is inserted into the abdominal cavity through a catheter. The peritoneum, a thin layer of tissue that lines the abdominal cavity, acts as a filter, allowing waste products and excess fluids to pass through and be removed from the body.

Here's how it works:

• The dialysate fluid is drained into the abdominal cavity through a catheter, which is usually placed in the lower abdomen.
• The dialysate absorbs the waste products from the blood
• The dialysate fluid is then drained from the abdominal cavity, taking the waste products with it.
• The process is repeated several times a day, usually at home.

Peritoneal dialysis is usually done at home, and patients can choose from two main types:

• Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD): This involves manually filling and draining the dialysate fluid several (2-4) times a day.
• Automated peritoneal dialysis (APD): This uses a machine to automate the process, filling and draining the dialysate fluid, often at night while the patient sleeps.

Peritoneal dialysis is a convenient and flexible treatment option for many people with ESRD, allowing them to maintain a more normal lifestyle and reduce the need for frequent hospital visits.

To help you decide which form of dialysis is right for you speak to our knowledgeable team of doctors and nurses at SEHA Kidney Care (SKC) or try this website