CAPD

Peritoneal dialysis is a type of treatment that takes over kidney function when the kidneys are no longer working properly due to kidney failure. The kidneys are part of the urinary system and are responsible for removing waste and extra fluid from the blood, which then leaves the body as urine. When the kidneys fail to do this job, waste builds up in the blood—a condition called uremia—which can be life-threatening if not treated.

This form of dialysis uses the lining inside your abdomen (called the peritoneum) as a natural filter. A soft tube (catheter) is placed in your belly through a minor procedure. A special cleaning fluid, known as dialysate, flows into your abdomen through this tube. As it sits there, the lining filters out waste and excess fluid from your blood into the dialysate.

After a few hours, the used fluid is drained out and replaced with fresh solution. This process can be done several times a day or overnight while you sleep, giving more freedom and flexibility than other dialysis methods.

CAPD is a good option for people with kidney failure who want a more flexible, home-based treatment. It is helpful for those who have difficulty travelling to a hospital for dialysis or want to avoid machines. It’s also suitable for patients who prefer a gentler, everyday routine they can manage on their own, with proper training and support.

Advantages of CAPD (Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis):

• It can be done at home — no need for daily hospital visits
• It offers more freedom and comfort in daily life
• No machines or needles required
• Gentle on the heart
• Allows for a more flexible diet
• It can also be done while working or travelling
• It promotes independence with proper training

Disadvantages of CAPD:

• Needs to be done 3 to 4 times every day
• Requires strict cleanliness to prevent infections
• Risk of peritonitis (infection in the abdominal lining)
• Some people may gain weight or feel bloated due to sugar in the dialysis fluid
• Not suitable for everyone (e.g., poor vision, hygiene issues, or past abdominal surgeries)
• May require help from a caregiver in some cases

CAPD is simple to perform after you are trained by a dialysis nurse. A soft tube (catheter) is placed into your abdomen through a minor surgery. This tube stays in place and is used to fill dialysis fluid into your belly. 

The fluid stays inside for a few hours. During this time, it collects waste and extra fluid from your blood through the lining of your abdomen. Then, the fluid is drained out and replaced with fresh fluid. This process is called an “exchange” and is done about four times a day. Each exchange takes 30–40 minutes and can be done in a clean room. 

You do not need a machine. With practice, most people can do this on their own or with help from a family member. CAPD gives you more control over your treatment and allows you to continue work, school, or travel more easily.

Like any treatment, CAPD can have some complications. The most common one is peritonitis, an infection of the belly lining. Other issues include infection around the catheter site, fluid leakage, hernia, or poor fluid drainage.

 Sometimes, people may gain weight or feel bloated due to the sugar in the dialysis fluid. These complications can be prevented with good hygiene. Always wash your hands before handling the catheter. Wear a mask during each exchange. Clean the catheter site daily as taught. 

Follow all instructions from your healthcare team. Never skip a step in the cleaning process. Report symptoms like fever, stomach pain, or cloudy fluid to your doctor right away. Regular follow-ups with your dialysis team help detect and treat any issues early. With the right care, most people can manage CAPD safely for many years.

RBH, Jaipur, is one of the leading hospitals for kidney care. Our team includes experienced nephrologists and trained dialysis nurses who specialise in CAPD. We provide full training so that you or your carer can safely perform CAPD at home. 

Our hospital offers a clean, supportive environment where patient comfort and safety are the top priorities. We also offer 24/7 support in case you face any problems while doing dialysis at home. Regular check-ups and personalised care plans are provided for each patient.

We use high-quality equipment and follow strict infection control to reduce complications. We guide you at every step — from the first consultation to long-term care. If you're looking for safe, convenient, and expert-led home dialysis treatment, RBH, Jaipur, is the right choice.