The Peritoneal Dialysis

Definition

Peritoneal dialysis is a method that uses the peritoneum (abdominal membrane) as a filter to clean the blood of toxic substances.

Method and objective

A fluid called dialysate is introduced, through a catheter, into the abdominal cavity in order to rebalance the blood plasma. Its components prompt the elimination of excess water and toxic substances produced by the body.

Self-treatment at home

The benefit for the patient is that he/she is independent and remains at home. As a first step, you learn the method at the hospital.

The gestures of bag connection and disconnection to/ from the catheter should be subject to rigorous hygiene.

There are two methods of peritoneal dialysis:

• continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis
• automated peritoneal dialysis.