RAI Dialysis Options

Hemodialysis

This type of dialysis uses a machine and a device known as a hemodialyzer to filter toxins and fluid from your blood. Blood is routed to the hemodialyzer by creating an access point in a blood vessel, usually in the arm. This is accomplished with a minor surgery that must be done ahead of time so it will be ready for use when needed.

Each treatment takes around four hours and is usually needed an average of three times a week. These treatments are usually done at an RAI Care Center on a regular schedule. Each treatment is administered and monitored by RAI Center caregivers such as nurses and technicians.

Since dialysis has become a commonly administered type of treatment, patients are not required to always receive treatment at the same center. Travel is an option for patients as long as they plan ahead and are able to schedule treatments elsewhere and are healthy enough for travel.

In-home Hemodialysis

Hemodialysis can also be done at home. There are three main types of home hemodialysis: conventional, short-daily, or nocturnal. The conventional method follows the same schedule as in-center treatments with the same treatment times. Short daily hemodialysis consists of shorter treatments more often (usually 5-7 times a week), while nocturnal dialysis is done while you sleep and is usually performed 4-7 times a week.

Peritoneal Dialysis

Quite different than hemodialysis, this type of treatment makes use of the semi-permeable peritoneal membrane that surrounds your intestines. Peritoneal dialysis requires placement of a permanent catheter in the abdomen. Using this catheter, the space inside the abdomen is filled with a special dialysis fluid. The solution allows waste, toxins and excess fluid from the blood to pass through the peritoneal membrane, into the dialysis fluid. The fluid is then drained from the abdomen, using the same catheter, and discarded.

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is usually performed in the patient’s home intermittently around four times a day. Or it may be performed overnight during sleep using a device known as a cycler. Most patients can perform this procedure on their own. To avoid infection, peritoneal dialysis requires careful attention to detail and hygiene.

Patient Training

While PD and home hemodialysis are always performed by the patient in their home, we provide initial training for you and a partner in the RAI Home Training Center. After training, you will need return to your RAI Home Care Center for monthly visits to obtain lab specimens and meet with the homecare team, which includes the home training nurse, dietitian, social worker and nephrologist.