Peritoneal Dialysis

Home Peritoneal Dialysis

Michael Garron Hospital’s (MGH) Home Peritoneal Dialysis (PD) Service provides personalized treatment plans, education and training for at-home peritoneal dialysis. 

Access 

This clinic requires a referral. Please speak to your nephrologist if you would like to be referred to this clinic.  

In-patient PERITONEAL DIALYSIS 

MGH also provides Peritoneal Dialysis treatment for patients admitted to the hospital. 

Please note: This clinic may require you to get immunizations and/or diagnostic imaging that is not covered by OHIP. Please speak to your immunization or imaging provider for cost information. 

What is peritoneal dialysis?

Peritoneal dialysis cleans your blood using the peritoneal membrane in your stomach and a special fluid. A catheter is surgically placed in your abdomen for treatment and involves multiple fluid exchanges. 

Our team offers three types of peritoneal dialysis:

1. Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD): Manual fluid exchanges 4 to 6 times daily, done during daily activities. 

2. Automated Peritoneal Dialysis (APD): Automated fluid exchanges done typically overnight at home with a cycler machine. 

3. Assisted Peritoneal Dialysis: A nurse or caregiver assists with the peritoneal process. 

Who is eligible for Peritoneal Dialysis?

Patients with end-stage renal failure needing renal replacement therapy are eligible for peritoneal dialysis. Please speak with your care team to determine if PD is right for you.

Why should I consider Home Peritoneal Dialysis?

• gentler on kidneys, preserving residual renal function. 
• flexible and easier for travel 
• fewer dietary restrictions (e.g., potassium, phosphorus) 
• needles are not required 
• reduced impact on your life, work and social life  

Our team

Our PD team includes nephrologists, nurses, dietitians, social workers, pharmacists and other specialists to support your care. 

What to expect

1. Treatment 

• PD involves daily exchanges.  

2. Clinic Appointments: 

• You may need to see more than one member of the PD team (this may take 30 to 60 minutes). 
• Bring your health card and arrive 15 minutes early for your appointment.  
• Tests or bloodwork done before your visit will be reviewed.  
• A nurse will share information on the different choices for renal replacement therapy, including Home Peritoneal Dialysis.  
• You can decide on your treatment option that will suit your lifestyle or take time to consider the available options. 

3. PD Catheter Placement: 

• Catheter placement is scheduled six weeks before starting PD. 
• The procedure takes 2 to 4 hours, with same-day discharge. 
• The site heals in 3 weeks. Bi-weekly dressing changes are required.  

 4. Training and Home Set-Up: 

• Learn CAPD and APD over 3-5 days of training. 
• A nurse assists with home set-up and cycler machine.  

Education and support 

Training: One-on-one sessions with a nurse, plus re-training as needed.  

Clinic Visits: Every two weeks for the first month, then once every two months.  

Home Support:  

• Home visits by Home PD nurses arranged, as needed. 
• Home Care Nurse provides visits, as necessary.  
• 24/7 technical support from the vendor company.  

SUPPLIES AND DISPOSAL 

Supplies: Delivered monthly (30-60 boxes). Smaller deliveries are possible if needed.   

Disposal: Supplies can go in regular garbage. Carboard boxes are recyclable. Assistance for larger garbage bins is available.