Yes, babies can have dialysis.
While it's a complex and delicate procedure, dialysis is a life-saving treatment for infants experiencing kidney failure (End-Stage Kidney Disease or ESKD). Chronic peritoneal dialysis (CPD) is the most common type of dialysis used for infants worldwide. In fact, CPD is the initial dialysis method for a vast majority (85-92%) of babies who need chronic dialysis.
Here’s a breakdown:
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Why Babies Need Dialysis: Just like adults, a baby's kidneys can fail due to congenital conditions, infections, or other illnesses. When this happens, waste products and excess fluid build up in the body, making dialysis necessary.
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Types of Dialysis for Babies:
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Peritoneal Dialysis (PD): This is the most common type for infants. A catheter is surgically placed in the baby's abdomen. A special fluid (dialysate) is then introduced into the abdominal cavity, where it absorbs waste products and excess fluid. After a certain period, the fluid is drained. This can be done manually (exchanges) or with a machine overnight (automated peritoneal dialysis).
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Hemodialysis (HD): This type of dialysis involves using a machine to filter the baby's blood outside of the body. It requires creating a vascular access point, which can be challenging in small infants. Therefore, it is less common than PD as an initial therapy for babies.
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Challenges of Dialysis in Babies: Dialysis in babies presents unique challenges because of their small size, fragile bodies, and the need for precise fluid and electrolyte management. Specialized expertise and equipment are essential.
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Benefits of Dialysis for Babies: Dialysis allows babies with kidney failure to survive and grow while awaiting a kidney transplant. It helps to control blood pressure, maintain electrolyte balance, and remove waste products, improving their overall health and quality of life.
In conclusion, while challenging, dialysis is a viable and often necessary treatment option for babies with kidney failure, providing them with a chance to survive and thrive.
