Question 1

Our Dialysis Services

Accepted Answer

Our services include: Adult haemodialysis: Dialysis treatment for adults with kidney failure. Paediatric haemodialysis: Specialised dialysis care for children and adolescents, tailored to their medical and developmental needs. Online haemodiafiltration (online HDF): An advanced form of dialysis that combines two methods of filtering the blood to remove a broader range of waste products. Individualised treatment plans: Dialysis prescriptions based on each patient's clinical condition, remaining kidney function, fluid balance and nutritional needs. Vascular access care: Assessment and management of the access through which blood flows to and from the dialysis machine. Patient and family education: Guidance on fluid intake, nutrition, medications, and dialysis access-site care.

Question 2

Haemodialysis

Accepted Answer

Haemodialysis uses a specialised machine to filter the blood, removing waste products and excess fluid when the kidneys cannot do so adequately. It also helps maintain the balance of electrolytes, such as potassium and sodium, and supports fluid and blood pressure management.

Question 3

Online Haemodiafiltration (Online HDF)

Accepted Answer

Online haemodiafiltration (online HDF) is an advanced form of dialysis that combines haemodialysis with haemofiltration. It uses two processes, diffusion and convection, to remove waste products of different sizes from the blood. At AKUH, online HDF is available as an additional treatment option for appropriately selected patients. Our nephrology team assesses each patient's condition to determine the most suitable dialysis treatment.

Question 4

Paediatric Dialysis

Accepted Answer

Children with kidney failure have specific medical, nutritional, developmental, and emotional needs. Our paediatric haemodialysis service works in collaboration with the relevant paediatric and nephrology teams to provide care tailored to each child. Treatment plans take into account the child's age, size, medical condition, vascular access, and remaining kidney function. We also guide parents and caregivers on fluid management, nutrition, medications, and dialysis access care.

Question 5

Preparing for Your Dialysis Session

Accepted Answer

Before starting haemodialysis, patients are assessed by the nephrology team and require suitable vascular access to allow blood to flow safely to and from the dialysis machine. Depending on their medical needs, patients may be advised to: Follow an individualised fluid intake plan to help prevent excess fluid accumulation. Follow a kidney-friendly diet, with guidance on sodium, potassium, and phosphorus intake. Take prescribed medications as directed. Follow instructions for caring for their dialysis access and keeping the area clean. Your healthcare team will provide guidance based on your individual treatment plan.

Question 6

What to Expect During Dialysis

Accepted Answer

During a dialysis session, you will sit or lie comfortably while connected to the dialysis machine. You may be able to read, use your mobile phone, listen to music, or rest during treatment. A conventional haemodialysis session typically lasts around four hours. However, the duration and frequency of treatment vary according to your medical needs, remaining kidney function, fluid accumulation, waste product levels, and body size. Some patients may experience temporary symptoms, such as dizziness or muscle cramps, during treatment. Our dialysis team monitors patients throughout each session and responds to any concerns.

Question 7

After Your Dialysis Session

Accepted Answer

Your healthcare team will guide you on managing your health between dialysis sessions, including: Following your recommended fluid and dietary plan. Monitoring your blood pressure as advised. Taking prescribed medications correctly. Caring for your dialysis access. Recognising signs of possible complications and knowing when to seek medical advice. Patients and families also receive guidance on access-site care and measures to help reduce the risk of infection.

Question 8

A Team-Based Approach to Dialysis Care

Accepted Answer

Dialysis care involves more than the treatment session itself. Our nephrologists, trained dialysis nurses, and experienced dialysis technicians work together to monitor your treatment, address your concerns and support your ongoing care. For children, treatment is adapted to their developmental stage and medical needs, with support and guidance for parents and caregivers throughout the dialysis journey.

Question 9

Locations

Accepted Answer

D1 Ward, Main Hospital Building The Aga Khan University Hospital Main Campus, Stadium Road, Karachi 2nd Floor, Jena Bai Hussainali Shariff Building The Aga Khan University Hospital Main Campus, Stadium Road, Karachi Ground Floor, The Princess Zahra Pavilion The Aga Khan University Hospital Main Campus, Stadium Road, Karachi 2nd Floor, Clifton Medical Services Block 2, Clifton, Karachi Contact Details Main Campus: (+92) 21 3486 4150 (+92) 21 3486 6422 CMS: (+92) 21 3310 0010