Hemodialysis compared to peritoneal dialysis

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Hemodialysis compared to peritoneal dialysis

Hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis are both used to treat kidney failure. Hemodialysis uses a man-made membrane (dialyzer) to filter wastes and remove extra fluid from the blood. Peritoneal dialysis uses the lining of the abdominal cavity (peritoneal membrane) and a salt solution (dialysate) to remove wastes and extra fluid from the body.

Each form of dialysis has its advantages and disadvantages.

**Comparison of dialysis methods**
	Hemodialysis	Peritoneal dialysis
Advantages	It is done by health professionals, so it may be a good choice if you cannot manage the technical aspects of peritoneal dialysis. It can be used even if you have abdominal problems, such as abdominal hernias or adhesions, or active inflammatory bowel disease. Contact with health professionals at dialysis center may be reassuring. Contact with other people having dialysis may help provide emotional support.	It does not cause rapid changes in blood pressure or in the electrolytes in the blood. It does not require the use of anticoagulants. This may make peritoneal dialysis a better option if you have bleeding problems or are taking medicines that interfere with blood clotting. It allows you to maintain an active lifestyle. This type of dialysis can be performed at home and at night and does not require a trip to a hospital or dialysis treatment center.
Disadvantages	It needs to be done at a hospital or dialysis center. It usually is done 3 days a week and takes 3 to 5 hours a day. It causes you to feel tired on the day of the treatments. It may be complicated by blood clot formation in the dialysis access.	It must be done every day of the week. Infection of the lining of the abdomen (peritonitis) is a common complication. You may not be able to manage the technical aspects of the procedure or have someone who can help you.

Credits

Author	Lila Havens
Editor	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Associate Editor	Michele Cronen
Primary Medical Reviewer	Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	D.C. Mendelssohn, MD, FRCPC - Nephrology
Last Updated	November 17, 2005

Last updated:	November 17, 2005
Author:	Lila Havens
Reviewed By:	Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine, D.C. Mendelssohn, MD, FRCPC - Nephrology
Editors:	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Michele Cronen

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