Dialysis
Dialysis Access Angioplasty and Thrombectomy Specialists in Arizona
Dialysis Services by SKI
Southwest Kidney Institute (SKI) has dialysis centers across Arizona to support you; we also partner with Davita® to provide dialysis services in even more locations across the state.
Offering the largest home dialysis program in the state, SKI may also be able to provide you in-home treatment. Ask your SKI physician if home dialysis is an option for you. Learn more about home dialysis.
Who Gets Dialysis?
Dialysis is used to treat patients with end stage kidney failure defined as a loss of 85 to 90 percent of kidney function and a glomerular filtration rate (GFR) of less than 15. GFR is determined by blood creatinine test, age, body size and gender and helps you and your physician understand your stage of kidney disease. In addition, patients awaiting a kidney transplant often get dialysis treatment.
In rare cases, some kinds of acute kidney failure get better after treatment. In these cases, dialysis may only be needed until the kidneys get better.
What is Dialysis?
When your kidneys are failing, dialysis is a treatment to do the required work of the kidneys to keep your body in balance. Dialysis performs these critical functions:
- Removes waste, salt and extra water to prevent build-up in your body
- Keeps a safe level of certain chemicals in your blood, such as potassium, sodium and bicarbonate
- Helps to control your blood pressure
What are the Different Types of Dialysis?
Hemodialysis
A treatment that uses a machine to circulate blood through an artificial kidney. The machine precisely mixes purified water, bicarbonate and acid based on the physician’s prescription and sends it to the artificial kidney. Monitors are constantly evaluating your dialysis treatment and will alarm if any condition is out of range ensuring your safety. SKI’s machines can monitor the fluid loss goal, concentrate mix and modeling for bicarb, sodium, temperature and Heparin (a blood thinner). Learn more.
Peritoneal dialysis (PD)
A treatment that uses the lining of your abdomen (belly area), called your peritoneum, and a cleaning solution called dialysate to clean your blood. Dialysate absorbs waste and fluid from your blood, using your peritoneum as a filter. Learn more.
To get more information on dialysis, visit our blog.
Dialysis FAQ: Answers from Arizona Dialysis Specialists
What Is Dialysis and Why Is It Needed?
Dialysis is a treatment that performs the essential functions of the kidneys when they can no longer work effectively. It removes waste, excess fluids, and toxins from your blood, maintains balanced electrolytes, and helps regulate blood pressure. Patients typically need dialysis when kidney function drops below 15% (end-stage kidney disease) or while awaiting a kidney transplant.
What Are the Main Types of Dialysis Offered at Southwest Kidney Institute?
SKI provides two primary treatments: hemodialysis, where blood is filtered through an artificial kidney using an advanced dialysis machine, and peritoneal dialysis (PD), which uses your abdominal lining as a natural filter. SKI also offers Arizona’s largest home dialysis program for eligible patients.
How Often Will I Need Dialysis?
Treatment schedules vary. Most hemodialysis patients receive therapy three times per week, while PD is typically performed daily. Your nephrologist will personalize your dialysis treatment plan based on your medical needs.
Can Dialysis Help While Waiting for a Kidney Transplant?
Yes. Dialysis supports your health and stability while you remain on the transplant waiting list, ensuring your body stays strong enough for surgery.
Where Can I Receive Dialysis in Arizona?
SKI operates multiple dialysis centers across Arizona and partners with DaVita® to expand access. Use our “Find Us” tool or request an appointment to locate your nearest dialysis center.