Dialysis

Dialysis, also called comprehensive renal replacement therapy, is a life-sustaining procedure for people with kidney failure. Mayo Clinic Health System specializes in dialysis services, and we are nationally recognized for high-quality patient care.

Your kidneys remove waste products and excess fluid from the blood. When your kidneys stop working, dialysis works in their place. It filters your blood and regulates chemical imbalances common with kidney failure.

If you require dialysis, Mayo Clinic Health System offers expertise and support every step of the way. Our convenient dialysis centers and at-home dialysis training help personalize treatment to fit your needs and lifestyle.

Find out more about our dialysis services:

• Conditions
• Treatments
• Dialysis specialists
• Referrals
• FAQ
• Dialysis locations near you

Conditions

Dialysis removes waste and extra fluid from the body for people who have:

• Acute kidney injury
• End-stage kidney disease (kidney failure)

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Treatments

There are two types of dialysis:

Hemodialysis

Blood is filtered through an artificial kidney (dialyzer) to remove extra fluid, chemicals and waste. Acute hemodialysis services are provided as inpatient or outpatient treatment under the direction of a nephrologist. Chronic hemodialysis services are initiated by a nephrologist for people diagnosed with end-stage renal disease.

Peritoneal dialysis

A person's own peritoneal membrane (thin stomach lining) filters blood to remove waste products and balance fluids. The process involves filtering dialysis solution into and out of your abdomen through a catheter (small, flexible tube) placed by a surgeon. A dialysis nurse teaches you how to perform the exchange using a small machine or by hand. You can do your exchanges at home or in any clean environment, during the day or at night while you sleep.

We specialize in lifesaving treatment for kidney disease and kidney failure.

Treatments and services we provide include:

• Chronic and Acute Kidney Disease (renal failure) Clinic, where a dedicated team of providers works together to deliver comprehensive care
• At-home dialysis and hemodialysis training and support for peritoneal dialysis
• In-center and at-home hemodialysis
• Outpatient dialysis services, including in-center and at-home dialysis training for people with end-stage renal disease or acute kidney injury
• Preemptive kidney transplantation evaluation
• Nutrition counseling from renal dietitians who specialize in kidney disorders
• Transient dialysis if you need treatment while traveling

To help you understand your disease path and dialysis treatment options, we offer nurse-led chronic kidney disease education appointments. The knowledge our nurses provide can help you make informed decisions about your care.

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Dialysis specialists

Our experienced team of kidney and dialysis specialists collaborates during your treatment under the direction of a dedicated medical director.

Our specialists include:

• Nephrologists
• Advance practice providers
• Nurses
• Patient care technicians
• Renal dietitians
• Social workers
• Technical staff

Additional care may be provided by:

• Interventional radiologists
• Vascular surgeons

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Referrals

A referral is required for dialysis. Talk with your primary care provider to determine if dialysis is right for you and to arrange a referral.

If you are a provider, you can refer a patient online, by phone or by fax.

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FAQ

What does preparation for hemodialysis involve?

Preparation for hemodialysis can begin months in advance. Chronic hemodialysis requires easy access to your bloodstream. Your nephrologist will determine the most appropriate access type for you. All types of vascular access require minor surgery performed in an operating room, under local or general anesthesia.

Your vascular access may be created by:

• Vascular surgeon: Our skilled surgeons have experience creating all types of vascular access.
• Interventional radiologists: These specialists are experts in imaging. They can place venous catheters and declot and open the vascular access.

There are several ways to create vascular access:

• Arteriovenous, or AV, fistula: The surgeon connects an artery to a vein, usually in the arm, to create a larger and stronger vein. That vein serves as a reliable access point for repeated needle insertions.
• Polytetrafluorethylene, or PTFE, graft: The surgeon uses a synthetic tube, or graft, to connect an artery and a vein, usually in the arm. The connection makes the vein suitable for repeated needle access.
• Venous catheter: The physician inserts a thin, flexible tube called a catheter into a vein in the neck. The catheter provides access to your bloodstream. It is most often used as a temporary access point.

You will connect to the dialyzer through this access point. Our vascular surgeons, interventional radiologists and nephrologists work together to ensure it functions properly for as long as you need it.

What does preparation for peritoneal dialysis involve?

A few weeks before peritoneal dialysis begins, a surgeon places a catheter in your abdomen. A cleansing dialysis solution will flow in and out of the body through the catheter. We provide training and support to help you administer dialysis treatment at home.

Will someone be monitoring me during my dialysis treatment?

During your in-clinic dialysis treatment, our nurses make sure your hemodialysis access works properly. Close monitoring helps reduce unexpected malfunctions or clotting.

If there is a complication, our vascular surgeons and interventional radiologists are available to:

• Declot and repair fistulas or grafts
• Fix existing access devices to maintain their function
• Insert new hemodialysis access devices

Does Mayo Clinic Health System offer transient dialysis support?

We offer support and can arrange medical appointments for people who need dialysis while away from home. This service applies even if the dialysis unit you usually visit is not part of Mayo Clinic Health System. Call to request transient dialysis support.

If you are traveling and on dialysis, we will see you to review your dialysis program and active medical problems. Our nurses will talk to the nursing staff in the dialysis facility you usually visit to ensure your treatment stays consistent. We can also help arrange an appointment with a Mayo Clinic Health System nephrologist.

Does insurance cover dialysis?

Health insurance varies. However, many health plans provide coverage for treatment in a dialysis center and at home. Contact your insurance provider for coverage details. Our Patient Account Services team is happy to answer any questions and help you navigate billing and insurance.

We serve patients in difficult financial circumstances. We offer financial assistance to those who have an established need to receive medically necessary services.

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Explore locations near you for details on dialysis: