Dialysis machines are used to filter waste and extra fluid from the blood of people with kidney failure. Dialysis helps to prevent dangerous levels of waste and fluid from building up in the body.
How it works
A needle or catheter is used to extract a small amount of blood from the body.
The blood passes through a dialyzer, which is a filter that removes waste and excess fluid.
The clean blood is then returned to the body.
Why it's used
Dialysis is used to treat kidney failure, which occurs when the kidneys are unable to properly clean the blood.
Dialysis can help to prolong life and improve quality of life.
Types of dialysis
Hemodialysis
A dialyzer is used to filter the blood. This type of dialysis can be performed at a dialysis center or at home.