Hemodialysis (HD), when used as a term for all extracorporeal dialysis therapies, accounts for approximately 88% of all dialysis treatments performed worldwide.
In a HD treatment the blood is purified outside the body and waste products and excess fluid are removed directly from the blood by pumping it through a filter, called a dialyzer, or an artificial kidney. A small amount of blood is continuously removed from the body, pumped through the dialyzer and returned. Only a small amount of blood is outside the body at any time. The blood is returned to the body at the same speed as it is removed.
What does hemodialysis do?
- Removes waste products
- Removes excess fluid
- Regulates acid-base balance (pH)
- Regulates electrolytic levels
A hemodialysis treatment is not painful and is normally uncomplicated. The patient can read, have a chat, watch TV or just take a nap while the blood is purified.
Hemodialysis can be performed either in a hospital, a satellite dialysis unit or at home.