What is Haemodialysis?

In-centre haemodialysis can be performed in two ways: 

• In 3 sessions per week, each lasting 4 to 5 hours. 

• Nocturnal haemodialysis: every other night, with sessions lasting 6 to 8 hours. 

This treatment is carried out by specialised healthcare professionals, so the patient does not need to carry it out themselves. 

Home haemodialysis can be performed in two ways: 

• Short daily haemodialysis: 5 to 6 days per week, with each session lasting 2 to 3 hours. 

• Nightly home haemodialysis: performed at night while the patient sleeps.

This modality is better tolerated and offers more flexible scheduling, greater autonomy, improved overall health management, and involves fewer dietary restrictions.

Haemodialysis requires a vascular access, which allows blood to be safely removed, cleaned and returned to the blood vessels.  

There are different types of vascular access: 

• Native arteriovenous fistula (AVF). It is a surgical connection made between an artery and a vein in the arm. It is the most common and long-lasting option. 

• Arteriovenous graft (AVG). If creating a native arteriovenous fistula isn’t possible, a synthetic tube is used to connect the artery and the vein.  

• Central venous catheter (CVC). It consists of a thin tube that is inserted into a deep vein, usually in the neck. This is usually a temporary solution or used when creating fistulas is not possible.

In general, both haemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis are safe and well tolerated techniques. However, some people may experience certain discomfort, especially at the beginning. Slight discomfort may be felt during needle insertion. Occasionally, the patient might experience tiredness, headache or dizziness if blood pressure drops during the session.