This procedure is performed to remove contaminants from the blood that could and eventually would result in death in the absence of kidney function. 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 an 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. Special solutions that absorb toxins are infused in, remain in the abdomen for a time, and then drained out. The blood flows across a semipermeable membrane with solutions that remove toxins. Before hemodialysis can be performed, there needs to be adequate access to the vascular system. A special type of arterial and venous access is therefore established.