Glossary term · Treatment
Dialysis (also: Haemodialysis, Renal replacement therapy): Dialysis is treatment that removes wastes and excess fluid from the blood when the kidneys fail, most commonly by haemodialysis through an external filter.
Dialysis is treatment that filters wastes and excess water from the blood when the kidneys can no longer do this. The US National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) explains that in haemodialysis blood passes through a filter called a dialyser outside the body. Centre-based haemodialysis is usually given three times a week.
How does haemodialysis work?
NIDDK says blood flows through thin hollow fibres in the dialyser while dialysis solution passes around them, drawing out wastes. Dialysis helps control blood pressure and balance minerals. NIDDK is clear that it does not reverse kidney failure.
What is vascular access?
- AV fistula: an artery joined directly to a vein. NIDDK describes it as the preferred long-term access, less likely to become infected or clot.
- AV graft: a synthetic tube joining an artery and a vein, used when veins cannot support a fistula.
- Catheter: a soft tube in a vein in the neck, chest or groin, usually as a temporary option.
How often is dialysis given?
NIDDK says centre-based haemodialysis is usually three sessions a week of about four hours each. Home haemodialysis is often more frequent. Peritoneal dialysis is another option, done at home using the lining of the abdomen as the filter.
How do you plan dialysis during a trip to India?
- Book dialysis sessions at the treating hospital or a nearby centre before you travel, with dates matched to your flights.
- Send your latest dialysis prescription, blood results, virology tests and access details.
- Ask your home unit for a written summary and its contact details for the Indian team.
- Carry enough of your regular medicines for the whole trip and some spare days.
Patients travelling for a kidney transplant usually continue dialysis in India until surgery. Your nephrologist decides the dialysis plan.
Questions people ask
Can I have dialysis in India while visiting for other treatment?
Many patients do. Sessions must be booked ahead and the unit will want recent virology tests and your dialysis prescription. Ask your home unit and the Indian centre to talk directly before you travel.
Is dialysis a permanent treatment?
For people with kidney failure, dialysis continues unless the kidneys recover or a kidney transplant is performed. NIDDK notes dialysis replaces some kidney functions but does not reverse kidney failure.
Sources
General information, not medical or legal advice. Rules change: confirm with the official source. Your treating specialist decides on suitability, treatment and length of stay. How we write and check.