Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is a type of dialysis that uses the peritoneum, a membrane that lines the inside of the abdomen, as a filter to remove waste products and excess fluids from the blood. There are two types of peritoneal dialysis: Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD) and Continuous Cycling Peritoneal Dialysis (CCPD).

CAPD

CAPD is a type of peritoneal dialysis that can be done by the patient at home. It involves manually exchanging the dialysis solution (dialysate) in the peritoneal cavity several times a day, typically four times a day. Each exchange typically takes 30-40 minutes and involves filling the abdomen with fresh dialysate, allowing it to dwell for a few hours to remove waste products and excess fluids, and then draining the used dialysate from the abdomen.

CCPD

CCPD is a type of peritoneal dialysis that is done overnight while the patient sleeps. It involves the use of a machine called a cycler, which automatically exchanges the dialysate in the patient's peritoneal cavity several times throughout the night. The cycler can be programmed to perform the exchanges at specific times and with specific amounts of dialysate.

Both CAPD and CCPD have advantages and disadvantages. CAPD offers more flexibility and independence since the patient can perform the exchanges manually and does not need a machine. However, it requires more frequent exchanges and may be less effective for patients with higher dialysis needs. CCPD, on the other hand, offers more consistent dialysis and can be more effective for patients with higher dialysis needs, but it requires the use of a machine and may be less flexible for patients who want to travel or maintain a more active lifestyle.

Peritoneal dialysis can be a good option for some patients with kidney failure who want to avoid hemodialysis, which involves going to a dialysis center several times a week. However, it may not be suitable for everyone and should be discussed with a healthcare provider.