Dialysis at The University of Texas | Memorial Hermann -TMC

Dialysis

Our state-of-the-art dialysis clinics offers a broad range of hemodialysis as well as peritoneal dialysis regimens.

Adult: To transfer to one of our Dialysis units call 713-500-6868

Pediatric: To transfer to our Dialysis unit Call 713-704-4886

Peritoneal Dialysis

Peritoneal dialysis is performed by surgically placing a hollow tube into the patient's lower abdomen near the navel. After the tube is placed, a solution called dialysate is administered into the peritoneal cavity. This cavity houses the abdominal organs and is lined by two membrane layers called the peritoneum.
The dialysate is left in the abdomen for a designated period of time, which is determined by the patient's physician. The dialysate fluid absorbs waste products and toxins through the peritoneum. The fluid is then drained from the abdomen, measured and discarded.
We perform two types of peritoneal dialysis: continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) and continuous cyclic peritoneal dialysis (CCPD).
CAPD does not require a machine. Exchanges, often referred to as “passes,” can be done three to five times a day during waking hours. CCPD requires the use of a special home dialysis machine that performs dialysis automatically, even while the patient is asleep.

Hemodialysis

Hemodialysis is performed in the dialysis center at Memorial Hermann - TMC. A special type of access, called an arteriovenous (AV) fistula, is implanted, usually under the patient's arm. An external intravenous (IV) catheter may also be inserted, but this is less common for long-term dialysis.
After access has been established, the patient will be connected to a hemodialysis machine that drains the blood, bathes it in a special dialysate solution to remove waste substances and fluids, then returns it to their bloodstream.
Hemodialysis is usually done several times a week and lasts for four to five hours.