Slide 1
A membrane separates two fluids
Dialysis transfers selected substances across a membrane. It can remove wastes and excess fluid when kidney function is insufficient.
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The membrane permits exchange without requiring blood and dialysis fluid to mix directly. Selective movement across a barrier is the core principle shared by different dialysis methods.
Slide 2
Hemodialysis uses an external filter
In hemodialysis, blood passes through a dialyzer outside the body. Thin hollow fibres provide a large area for exchange.
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Dialysis solution flows on the other side of the fibre walls, commonly in the opposite direction. Counterflow helps maintain useful differences along the exchange surface.
Slide 3
The fluid composition matters
Dialysis solution is prepared with a controlled composition. Differences between it and the blood influence which dissolved substances move.
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Removing water also requires control over fluid transfer. Too much change too quickly can disturb circulation, so solute exchange and fluid balance are monitored together.
Slide 4
The abdomen can supply a barrier
Peritoneal dialysis uses the lining of the abdomen as an exchange surface. Dialysis fluid receives material transferred from nearby blood vessels.
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The fluid is replaced through planned exchanges. The location of the membrane differs from hemodialysis, but the method still relies on renewing the solution rather than leaving it unchanged indefinitely.
Slide 5
Replacement is incomplete
Dialysis replaces part of kidney function, not every role of a healthy kidney. It does not reproduce the whole organ’s continuous regulation.
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Kidneys also contribute hormones and other regulatory functions. Understanding these wider roles explains why dialysis care involves more than operating a filter.
Sources
- Hemodialysis
NIDDK, NIH
- Peritoneal Dialysis
NIDDK, NIH
- Your Kidneys & How They Work
NIDDK, NIH