Home hemodialysis (HD) is a kidney replacement therapy option for patients with kidney failure. Most of the treatment preparation is similar to in-center hemodialysis, however the treatment is done in the comfort of your own home and may use slightly different hemodialysis equipment.
Home HD is only available in selected countries. Contact us to learn more.
Where does the treatment happen?
In the comfort of your own home.
What is the treatment like?
You insert a needle into your dialysis access which connects you to an artificial kidney (dialyzer) via a dialysis machine. Blood is cleaned or filtered through the dialyzer and then returned to your body.
Who performs this treatment?
You. A trained care partner can assist you if available. A care partner can be trained together with you so they can assist you if needed.
What are the dialysis access type(s) for this treatment?
A dialysis access is created or placed in your body, most commonly in your arm to connect you to the dialysis equipment so your blood can be cleaned.
Several factors help determine which type of dialysis access is best for you, including your veins and overall health.
- Fistula: formed from existing blood vessels in your arm – also referred to as an arteriovenous fistula (AVF).
- Graft: a piece of soft tubing connecting an artery and a vein in your arm.
- Hemodialysis catheter: a tube placed in your neck, chest or groin that is often used temporarily for certain conditions.
You should speak to your doctor to know the type of dialysis access best suited to your condition.
What are typical treatment schedules?
Generally, there are 3 types of schedules for home hemodialysis treatment – with options depending on the type of machine you have. Your nephrologist can help to determine the best schedule for you. Your options may include:
- Longer, less frequent treatments. For example, 3 times a week, 4-5 hours per session.
- Shorter, more frequent treatments. For example, 5-6 times a week, 2.5-3 hours per session.
- Nocturnal (nighttime) treatments. For example, overnight, 6-8 hours per session.
What are some of the key considerations?
- You can choose how to time your treatments, so you can have more flexibility for social activities, work, hobbies or school.
- You save travel time and transportation costs.
- You may have added flexibility with your diet if you’re prescribed more frequent treatments.
