Peritoneal dialysis uses a natural filter inside your body—the lining
of your belly, called the peritoneal membrane—to remove wastes and extra fluid
from your body. It also restores the normal balance of certain minerals in the
blood (electrolytes). The dialysis fluid fills the belly and pulls out extra
minerals and fluids from the bloodstream. These wastes then drain out of the
body along with the dialysis fluid into a collection bag. Peritoneal dialysis
is usually done at home.
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By
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Healthwise Staff |
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Primary Medical Reviewer
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E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine |
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Specialist Medical Reviewer
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Tushar J. Vachharajani, MD, FASN, FACP - Nephrology |
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Last Revised
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May 10, 2011 |