Get the Best Treatment for Hemodialysis at an Affordable Price
Hemodialysis surgery is a crucial medical procedure that
assists individuals with compromised kidney function. When the kidneys
struggle to filter waste and excess fluids from the blood, hemodialysis
steps in as a lifeline. During the procedure, blood is redirected through a
dialysis machine, where it is cleansed of toxins and returned to the body.
Steps involved in Hemodialysis Procedure
The AV hemodialysis procedure, also known as arteriovenous
hemodialysis, involves creating an arteriovenous fistula (AV fistula) to provide a
reliable access point for hemodialysis treatments. Here's what happens during the AV
hemodialysis procedure:
- Patient Evaluation:
Before the procedure, a thorough evaluation of the patient's
vascular anatomy is conducted. This helps determine the suitability
of the arteries and veins for creating the AV fistula.
- Anesthesia:
Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area where the AV
fistula will be created. This ensures that the patient remains
comfortable throughout the procedure.
- AV Fistula Creation:
- The surgeon makes an incision over the chosen artery and
vein, typically in the arm.
- The artery and vein are carefully exposed, and the surgeon
creates an opening in both vessels.
- The artery and vein are then directly connected, either
through sutures or a synthetic graft, creating the AV
fistula.
- Blood Flow Check:
After creating the AV fistula, the surgeon checks the blood flow to
ensure proper circulation through the newly created connection.
- Maturation Period:
Following the procedure, the AV fistula needs time to "mature."
During this period, the vein gradually thickens and strengthens,
making it suitable for repeated needle insertions during
hemodialysis.
- Hemodialysis Access:
- Once the AV fistula is mature, it serves as an access point
for hemodialysis treatments.
- During hemodialysis sessions, two needles are inserted into
the fistula—one to draw blood from the body into the
dialysis machine, and the other to return clean blood from
the machine to the body.
- Ongoing Care:
Regular follow-up appointments with healthcare professionals are
essential to monitor the AV fistula's function and address any
issues that may arise.
Who will Treat for Hemodialysis Procedure
To undergo hemodialysis surgery, you would need to connect with
a healthcare team that specializes in kidney care and dialysis. Here's whom you
would typically contact for hemodialysis surgery:
- Nephrologist:
A nephrologist is a medical doctor who specializes in kidney health.
They will assess your kidney function, determine the need for
hemodialysis, and provide guidance on the appropriate treatment
plan.
- Dialysis Center:
Dialysis centers are specialized facilities equipped to provide
various types of dialysis treatments, including hemodialysis.
Contacting a dialysis center is a common way to access hemodialysis
surgery.
- Nephrology Department of a Hospital:
Many hospitals have dedicated nephrology departments where you can
consult with nephrologists and receive information about
hemodialysis surgery.
- Primary Care Physician:
Your primary care physician can provide referrals to nephrologists
or dialysis centers for further evaluation and guidance.
- Medical Referrals:
You can ask your primary care physician or other healthcare
providers for recommendations and referrals to specialists who can
perform hemodialysis surgery.
- Internet Research:
You can research dialysis centers, hospitals, and nephrology
specialists online to find facilities or experts specializing in
hemodialysis.
- Healthcare Insurance Provider:
If you have health insurance, your insurance provider can guide you
to healthcare facilities and professionals within their network who
offer hemodialysis services.
- Local Support Groups:
Support groups for individuals with kidney conditions may provide
valuable information about local resources and healthcare providers
specializing in hemodialysis.
Preparing for Hemodialysis Surgery
Preparing for hemodialysis surgery involves several important
steps to ensure that you are physically and mentally ready for the procedure. Here's
a guide on how to prepare:
- Consultation with Nephrologist:
Start by consulting with a nephrologist (kidney specialist) to
determine the need for hemodialysis and discuss the procedure.
- Medical Evaluation:
Undergo a comprehensive medical evaluation to assess your overall
health and suitability for hemodialysis.
- Understand the Procedure:
Learn about the hemodialysis procedure, its purpose, the process
involved, and what to expect before, during, and after the surgery.
- Share Medical History:
Provide your healthcare team with a detailed medical history,
including past surgeries, medical conditions, allergies, and
medications you are taking.
- Medication Review:
Inform your healthcare team about all medications, supplements, and
herbal remedies you are taking. Some medications may need to be
adjusted before the surgery.
- Blood Tests:
Complete any necessary blood tests to assess your kidney function,
blood clotting ability, and overall health.
- Fasting Instructions:
Follow any fasting instructions provided by your healthcare team.
You may need to avoid food and liquids for a specified period before
the surgery.
- Hydration:
Stay adequately hydrated in the days leading up to the surgery.
Proper hydration supports your body's healing process.
- Stop Smoking:
If you smoke, consider quitting or at least refraining from smoking
before and after the surgery. Smoking can impact healing and
increase the risk of complications.
- Arrange Transportation:
Plan for transportation to and from the surgical facility, as you
might not be able to drive immediately after the procedure due to
anesthesia.
- Arrange Support:
Enlist a family member or friend to provide support during your
recovery period.
- Mental Preparation:
Prepare yourself mentally for the surgery. Understand the benefits
of hemodialysis and the role it plays in improving your health.
- Preoperative Instructions:
Follow any preoperative instructions provided by your healthcare
team, including guidelines on medication intake and bathing before
the surgery.
- Communication:
Keep an open line of communication with your healthcare team.
Address any concerns or questions you may have before the surgery.
During a typical hemodialysis treatment session
- Vascular Access:
Before hemodialysis can begin, a suitable vascular access point is
established. This can be done through an arteriovenous fistula (AV
fistula), arteriovenous graft (AV graft), or central venous
catheter. The access point allows blood to be safely withdrawn from
the body and returned after dialysis.
- Preparing the Access Point:
If you have an AV fistula or AV graft, the dialysis team will insert
two needles into the access site. One needle draws blood from your
body into the dialysis machine, and the other returns cleaned blood
to your body.
- Connection to Dialysis Machine:
The needles are connected to tubes that lead to the dialysis
machine. The machine contains a special filter called a dialyzer
that mimics the kidney's function of filtering toxins and excess
fluids from the blood.
- Blood Filtration:
Blood flows into the dialyzer, and on the other side of the
dialyzer, a sterile solution called dialysate helps draw out waste
and excess fluids from the blood.
- Monitoring and Adjustments:
During the hemodialysis session, your vital signs are closely
monitored, and the dialysis machine is adjusted as needed to ensure
a safe and effective treatment.
- Duration of Treatment:
A typical hemodialysis treatment session lasts about 3 to 4 hours,
and it can vary based on individual needs and the prescribed
treatment plan.
- Completion of Treatment:
Once the treatment is complete, the cleaned blood is returned to
your body, and the needles are removed from the access site.
- Post-Dialysis Care:
After the treatment, the access site is cleaned and dressed to
prevent infection. You can resume your regular activities after a
brief rest.
Recovery after Hemodialysis Procedure
- Post-Dialysis Fatigue:
Some patients may experience fatigue after a hemodialysis session
due to the physical demands of the treatment. This is normal and
usually improves over time.
- Dietary Considerations:
Following a specific diet recommended by your healthcare team is
crucial to ensure that your body's nutritional balance is maintained
between dialysis sessions.
- Fluid Intake Management:
It's important to monitor your fluid intake between dialysis
sessions, as excessive fluid intake can lead to fluid overload and
potential complications.
- Medication Management:
If you're taking medications, it's important to coordinate their
administration with your healthcare team, as some medications might
need to be adjusted based on your dialysis schedule.
- Lifestyle Adjustments:
Adapting to the hemodialysis schedule may require adjustments to
your daily routine, especially considering the time and energy spent
during dialysis sessions.
- Emotional Well-being:
Managing a chronic condition like kidney failure and undergoing
regular hemodialysis can impact your emotional well-being. It's
important to seek support and engage in activities that bring you
joy.
Lifestyle changes after Hemodialysis Procedure
- Dietary Restrictions:
Follow a specific diet plan recommended by your healthcare team.
This may involve limiting sodium, potassium, phosphorus, and fluid
intake to help manage electrolyte balance and fluid levels.
- Fluid Intake Management:
Monitor your fluid intake closely, as excessive fluid consumption
can lead to fluid overload and strain on the heart.
- Medication Adherence:
Take prescribed medications as directed by your healthcare provider.
These medications can help manage blood pressure, anemia, and other
conditions associated with kidney disease.
- Regular Medical Appointments:
Attend all scheduled medical appointments with your nephrologist,
healthcare team, and dialysis center. Regular check-ups are
essential to monitor your condition and adjust your treatment plan
as needed.
- Physical Activity:
Engage in regular physical activity as advised by your healthcare
provider. Staying active can help improve circulation, maintain
muscle strength, and support overall well-being.
- Stress Management:
Practice stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, deep
breathing, or yoga to help manage stress and promote emotional
well-being.
- Avoid Smoking and Alcohol:
If you smoke, quitting is highly recommended, as smoking can worsen
kidney function. Limit or avoid alcohol consumption as well.
- Skin and Access Care:
If you have a vascular access site for hemodialysis, take proper
care of it to prevent infections and complications.
- Dental Care:
Maintain good oral hygiene to prevent infections that could affect
your overall health.
- Get Vaccinated:
Stay up to date with vaccinations, including flu and pneumonia
vaccines, to protect your immune system.
- Monitor Blood Pressure:
Regularly monitor your blood pressure and take any prescribed
medications to control it. High blood pressure can further damage
kidneys.
- Education and Self-Care:
Learn about your condition and treatment. Engage in self-care
practices to better manage your health.
- Limit High-Potassium Foods:
Consume fewer high-potassium foods like bananas, oranges, tomatoes,
and potatoes to help control potassium levels.
- Limit High-Phosphorus Foods:
Reduce intake of high-phosphorus foods like dairy products,
processed meats, and certain beans to manage phosphorus levels.
- Protein Intake: Adjust your protein intake based on your
healthcare provider's recommendations to help manage waste buildup.
