Dialysis

The AVG can be accessed a few weeks after creation. It provides good flows but has a high complication rate. It should be attempted only if the AVF is not feasible.

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Blood is diverted from the access point in the patient's body to a dialysis machine. Here, the blood flows counter-current to a special solution called the dialysate. The chemical imbalances and impurities of the blood are corrected and the blood is then returned to the body. Typically, most patients undergo hemodialysis for three sessions every week. Each session lasts 3-4 hours.

How to prepare for the test:

It is important to adhere to the diet and medicines prescribed by the dialysis staff and your nephrologist.

Just before your health care provider begins the hemodialysis procedure, the following assessments will be made:

Blood pressure
Temperature
Heart rate
Breathing rate
Weight
Chest assessment
Examination of venous access

How the test will feel:

Since dialysis takes several hours, it may become tedious. With children, it is especially important to have games, something to read, or other distractions.

Why the test is performed:

This procedure removes contaminants from the blood that could, and eventually would, result in death if the kidney is not functioning.

The kidneys function as filters for the blood, removing products of amino acid breakdown. More than that, they serve to reclaim and regulate body water, maintain electrolyte balance, and ensure that the blood pH remains between 7.35 and 7.45. Without the function of the kidney, life is not possible.

Dialysis serves to replace some of the functions of the kidney. Since dialysis is not a constant ongoing process, it cannot serve as a constant monitor as do normal functioning kidneys, but it can eliminate waste products and restore electrolyte and pH levels on an as-needed basis.