dialyse

Dialysis, sometimes spelled dialyse in some languages, is a medical therapy that substitutes for many kidney functions in people with kidney failure. Its primary role is to remove waste products and excess fluids from the blood and to help maintain electrolyte and acid-base balance. Dialysis is used when the kidneys can no longer perform these tasks adequately, either chronically or temporarily.

There are two main modalities: hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis. Hemodialysis uses an artificial kidney machine to filter blood through a semipermeable membrane. Blood is circulated from the patient through a machine and returned, with access provided by an arteriovenous fistula, an arteriovenous graft, or a central venous catheter. In-center hemodialysis is common, typically performed about three times per week for several hours per session, though some patients do home hemodialysis. Peritoneal dialysis uses the peritoneal membrane as the filter. Dialysis fluid is infused into the abdominal cavity, dwells to exchange waste and electrolytes, and is drained away. PD can be performed at home, either continuously (CAPD) or overnight using a cycler (APD).

Dialysis is indicated for end-stage kidney disease and in selected cases of acute kidney injury when function cannot be restored promptly. It supports life but does not cure kidney disease. Complications can include low blood pressure during treatment, infections at access sites, cramps, fatigue, and electrolyte disturbances. Treatment decisions depend on medical condition, preferences, and availability, with kidney transplantation as a potential definitive alternative when feasible.