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Peritoneal dialysis (PD)
Category: Kidney & Dialysis Procedures · All kidney & dialysis procedures
What it is
Peritoneal dialysis uses the lining of your abdomen (peritoneum) as a natural filter. Dialysis fluid is run into the abdomen through a permanent soft tube (catheter), dwells there while waste and fluid pass into it from the blood, and is then drained and replaced. It is done at home — either as manual exchanges through the day (CAPD) or by a machine overnight (APD).
Why it is done
It is a home-based treatment for kidney failure, chosen by many people who want independence from hospital sessions, subject to a suitable abdomen and home circumstances.
How to prepare
A catheter is placed by a small operation (keyhole or open) a few weeks before starting. You (and sometimes a family helper) are trained over one to two weeks by the PD team: sterile technique, exchanges, recognising infection, and ordering supplies that are delivered to your home.
What happens during the procedure
For CAPD, each exchange takes about 30 to 40 minutes, typically four times a day; fluid stays in the abdomen between exchanges. For APD, you connect to a cycler machine at bedtime and it performs exchanges while you sleep, disconnecting in the morning. Regular clinic visits check blood tests, fluid status and catheter condition.
Afterwards — recovery & results
Life on PD is flexible but daily. You must keep the catheter exit site clean, store supplies, and watch for cloudy dialysis fluid — the key sign of infection (peritonitis) — which needs same-day contact with your unit. Swimming and baths have specific guidance from your team.
Risks & considerations
Risks include peritonitis (infection inside the abdomen), exit-site infection, hernias from abdominal pressure, catheter blockage or leaks, and over years the membrane can become less efficient, when transfer to haemodialysis may be needed. Weight gain from glucose in the fluid is managed with diet and fluid choices.
Watch: Peritoneal dialysis (PD) videos
Real procedure videos from the MedicalVideos.com library. Some clinical footage is graphic — that is the nature of a medical video library.
Related guides on MedicalVideos.com
Frequently asked questions
Can I travel on PD?
Yes — supplies can be shipped to many destinations and the team helps you plan. Travel is one of PD's advantages.
How will I know if I have peritonitis?
Cloudy drained fluid is the earliest sign, often with abdominal pain or fever. Contact your PD unit the same day — early treatment protects the membrane and usually saves the catheter.
Related procedures — Kidney & Dialysis Procedures
Browse the P section of the A–Z list or return to the Procedures & Tests hub.