Peritoneal Dialysis

When you choose peritoneal dialysis, you are choosing the most flexible dialysis option.

We begin the process by visiting your home and helping you choose where your dialysis should take place. We'll help you choose a comfortable area and make sure there is sufficient power to operate the dialysis machine. We'll also add a device to your water faucet to filter water for your machine.

Next, an Elik Dialysis nurse will then teach you how to perform peritoneal dialysis. Anyone can be taught; no medical background is necessary. And, patients will still be monitored by a nurse and their nephrologist. The training usually takes about two weeks; we make sure you are completely comfortable with the procedure.

There are two ways of doing peritoneal dialysis at home. One uses a machine and one does not. Some patients even use a combination of both:

• Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD) does not require a machine. It is done during the daytime when the patient is awake.
• Continuous Cycling Peritoneal Dialysis (CCPD) uses a machine called a cycler. It is done at night while the person sleeps.

If you travel, there are even small dialysis machines available that do not need any special plumbing or wiring and can be taken in a car, airplane, even a cruise. And you can have the supplies shipped to your destination.

Costs are covered by health insurance, Medicare or you can pay privately. Medicare also helps pay for equipment and supplies.

The benefits of peritoneal dialysis include:

• Utmost freedom to determine your dialysis schedule
• Maximum control over your dialysis treatments
• No travelling to an in-center location three times a week during a set time
• Easy if you have a hard time getting around, travel or hectic work schedules
• Greater opportunity to return to work, school or other activities

• Reduction in medication
• Prolonged kidney function
• Can dialyze in the comfort and privacy of your own home
• Less dietary limitations
• Patients say they have more energy, feel less nauseous and sleep better

Studies have shown that patients who dialyze in their home have:

• Fewer hospital stays
• Better blood pressure control
• Less likely to have long-term problems
• A longer lifespan