Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis

Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD) is a type of dialysis that provides continuous therapy, which is similar to the natural workings of the kidneys. It is a form of Peritoneal Dialysis that can be performed at home or at work, while the patient goes about their daily life.

Overview[edit | edit source]

CAPD is a method of renal replacement therapy that can be performed at home by the patient without any help. This method uses the patient's peritoneum in the abdomen as a membrane across which fluids and dissolved substances are exchanged from the blood. The dialysis solution is drained into the peritoneal cavity, where it absorbs waste products, and then drained out. This process is repeated several times a day.

Procedure[edit | edit source]

The procedure of CAPD involves the surgical implantation of a catheter into the patient's abdomen. The catheter allows for the dialysis solution to be introduced and removed from the peritoneal cavity. The solution is left in the abdomen for a prescribed period (usually for several hours), during which time the patient can go about their daily activities. After the dwell time, the solution is drained from the abdomen, taking with it the waste products from the blood. This process is known as an exchange.

Advantages and Disadvantages[edit | edit source]

CAPD has several advantages over hemodialysis. It can be done at home without the need for a machine, it allows for greater flexibility in the patient's schedule, and it provides continuous therapy, which is more similar to the natural workings of the kidneys. However, it also has some disadvantages. It requires the patient to have manual dexterity and motivation to perform the exchanges, it carries a risk of peritonitis, and it may not be suitable for patients with certain medical conditions.