How is dialysis performed?

Dialysis: Dialysis can be done through the blood (hemodialysis) or through the abdomen (peritoneal dialysis). Hemodialysis involves passing the blood across and filter to purify it / remove toxins and remove water. Peritoneal dialysis takes advantage of the membrane within the abdomen to act as a filter. In either case toxins are removed from the blood stream.

Peritoneal or hemo: There are 2 types of dialysis: hemodialysis and peritoneal. Both are effective but have pros and cons. Hemodialysis is generally done at a dialysis center three times a week and requires "access" into the blood stream, a fistula is preferred. Peritoneal dialysis is done at home through a catheter (tube) inserted into the abdominal cavity.