During dialysis, a person also recieves the hormones the kidneys are unable to produce. Most hemodialysis is performed at a dialysis center, specialized centers staffed by nurses and dialysis technicians with thorough training in the process. Some patients receive hemodialysis at home. This requires intensive training and the assistance of a designated care giver. This is an entirely different way of filtering wastes from the body.
Peritoneal dialysis utilizes the peritoneal membrane, which is the lining of the abdominal cavity.
The peritoneal membrane is very large, and has a rich blood supply. The dialysate remains in this cavity for two to six hours, during which the wastes, extra fluid, and excess chemicals pass from the blood vessels in the peritoneal membrane into the dialysate fluid, Then, the dialysate fluid is drained from the abdomen via the catheter. Once the fluid is drained, new fluid is placed to begin the process anew. Peritoneal dialysis allows patients greater independence because they can perform the procedure on their own at home. People who are self-motivated and who have not had major abdominal surgery may be suited for this form of dialysis.