Dialysis Demystified: Hemodialysis, Peritoneal Dialysis & CRRT

Dialysis is a life-saving treatment for individuals whose kidneys can no longer filter waste and excess fluids effectively. While the idea of dialysis can feel overwhelming at first, understanding the different types of treatment helps patients and families make informed decisions. Modern dialysis therapies are safe, effective, and tailored to individual medical needs. This guide breaks down the three most commonly used dialysis methods—Hemodialysis, Peritoneal Dialysis, and Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy (CRRT)—to help you understand what each entails.

Hemodialysis: The Most Common Form of Dialysis

Hemodialysis (HD) involves using a machine and a special filter called a dialyzer to clean the blood. During the procedure, blood is taken out of the body, filtered, and then returned. This process removes toxins, extra salts, and excess fluid.

Hemodialysis can be done:

• In a dialysis center (3 times a week, 3–4 hours per session)
• At home, for those trained and medically suited

Patients may experience improved energy, reduced swelling, and better overall health once the treatment stabilizes. However, sticking to fluid and dietary restrictions remains important.

Peritoneal Dialysis: A More Flexible Option

Peritoneal Dialysis (PD) uses the body’s own peritoneal membrane inside the abdomen as a natural filter. A sterile fluid called dialysate is infused into the abdominal cavity through a catheter. Waste products pass from the blood into this fluid, which is then drained and replaced.

There are two main types:

• CAPD (Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis) – performed manually 3–4 times a day
• APD (Automated Peritoneal Dialysis) – done at night using a machine while the patient sleeps

PD allows greater mobility, fewer clinic visits, and a lifestyle-friendly routine, making it ideal for active patients. However, maintaining hygiene is crucial to prevent infections like peritonitis.

CRRT: Dialysis for Critically Ill Patients

Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy (CRRT) is used mainly in intensive care units for patients who are critically ill, unstable, or suffering from severe acute kidney injury (AKI). Unlike traditional dialysis, CRRT runs 24 hours a day, removing waste and fluid slowly and gently, which is safer for unstable patients.

CRRT is especially useful for patients with:

• Low blood pressure
• Severe infections
• Multiple organ failure

Though more complex, it provides continuous support when the kidneys are severely compromised.

From routine hemodialysis to the flexibility of peritoneal dialysis and the advanced support of CRRT, today’s dialysis therapies are highly effective and customizable. Understanding each method empowers patients to choose the right option for their lifestyle and medical condition. With proper medical guidance, dialysis can help individuals live healthier, longer, and more fulfilling lives.

Our Services

• Diabetic Kidney Disease
• Acute Kidney Injury
• Fluid Balance
• Kidney Biopsy
• Dialysis Catheter
• Permanent Catheterisation

Our Treatments

• Diabetes/Sugar
• Hypertension/BP
• Chronic Kidney Disease
• Protein in Urine
• Urinary Tract Infection
• Dialysis
• Kidney Transplant
• Kidney Stone
• Electrolyte Disorder
• Polycystic Kidney Disease
• Glomeruldnephritis/AKI