hemodialýze

Hemodialysis is a medical procedure that artificially performs the function of the kidneys. It is used for individuals whose kidneys have failed and can no longer adequately filter waste products, excess fluid, and electrolytes from the blood. This failure can be due to various conditions such as chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, or certain poisonings.

The process involves drawing blood from the patient's body, usually through an arteriovenous fistula or graft, or a central venous catheter. This blood is then pumped through a dialyzer, often called an artificial kidney. The dialyzer contains a semipermeable membrane that separates the blood from a dialysis fluid, also known as dialysate. Waste products and excess fluid move from the blood across the membrane into the dialysate, while essential substances remain in the blood. The cleaned blood is then returned to the patient's body.

Hemodialysis typically takes place in a specialized clinic or hospital setting and is usually performed several times a week, with each session lasting several hours. Patients undergoing hemodialysis often have to adhere to strict dietary and fluid restrictions to manage their condition effectively. While hemodialysis can significantly improve the quality of life and prolong survival for individuals with kidney failure, it is not a cure and requires lifelong commitment. Alternative treatments for kidney failure include peritoneal dialysis and kidney transplantation.