Difference Between Dialysis and Hemodialysis (HD) in Medical Terms

Our kidneys are like the body’s natural filter. Every day, they remove toxins, waste products, and extra fluid from our blood.

When kidneys are badly damaged, a condition called end-stage renal disease (ESRD), they can no longer do this job. At this stage, dialysis becomes a life-saving treatment.

Dialysis takes over the role of the kidneys, helping patients live longer and maintain a better quality of life. In Indonesia, the number of people needing dialysis is growing each year, reflecting the rising cases of kidney disease.

At Bali International Hospital, patients can access advanced dialysis options with modern equipment and professional medical teams. In this article, we’ll explain the difference between dialysis and hemodialysis, how these treatments work, and why our international hospital is a trusted place for kidney care.

What is Dialysis?

Dialysis is a treatment that cleans the blood when the kidneys fail. It removes harmful substances like urea, salts, and excess fluids that build up in the body.

Without dialysis, these toxins would continue to accumulate, leading to serious complications.

The Two Main Types of Dialysis

There are two main dialysis types:

1. Hemodialysis (HD): Blood is filtered through a dialysis machine and a special filter known as a dialyzer.
2. Peritoneal Dialysis (PD): Uses the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) as a natural filter. A dialysis solution is placed inside the abdomen and then drained after a few hours.

In Indonesia, hemodialysis is the most common method, since it is widely available in hospitals and dialysis centers.

What is Hemodialysis (HD)?

Hemodialysis is the most widely used form of dialysis worldwide. In simple terms, it is a process where blood is cleaned by a machine outside the body.

How Hemodialysis Works

• A vascular access point is created in the arm, usually through a minor surgery.
• Blood flows out of the body into a hemodialysis machine.
• Inside the machine, the blood passes through a hemodialyzer (often called an “artificial kidney”), which removes toxins and extra fluid.
• The cleaned blood is safely returned to the body.

Treatment Schedule

Most patients need:

• 3 sessions per week
• Each session lasts around 4 hours
• Treatments are performed in hospitals or dialysis centers under close medical supervision

Advantages of Hemodialysis

• Very effective in removing toxins and fluid
• Always done with professional staff and monitoring
• Provides regular checkups to track patient health

Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD)

Another option for kidney disease treatment is Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD). Unlike HD, it does not require a machine during the actual process; instead, the body’s own abdominal lining is used as the filter.

How CAPD Works

• A catheter is placed in the abdomen.
• Special dialysis fluid is introduced into the abdominal cavity.
• The fluid stays inside for a few hours, during which waste and toxins pass from the blood into the fluid.
• The used fluid is then drained and replaced with fresh solution, usually four times a day.

Advantages of CAPD

• Can be done at home, giving patients independence
• Gentler on the heart compared to hemodialysis
• Usually avoids the need for blood thinners

Challenges of CAPD in Indonesia

Even though CAPD provides flexibility, it is less common in Indonesia. Limited awareness, training, and availability of supplies mean most patients still rely on hemodialysis.

Key Differences Between Dialysis and Hemodialysis

The terms “dialysis” and “hemodialysis” are often confused, but they are not the same. Here are the main differences explained simply:

1. Dialysis is the general term that refers to any treatment that removes waste from the blood, including both hemodialysis (HD) and peritoneal dialysis (CAPD).
2. Hemodialysis is a specific type of dialysis; in this method, a machine filters the blood outside the body.
3. Where it happens: Hemodialysis is done in a hospital or dialysis center, while CAPD can be performed at home by the patient.
4. Flexibility: CAPD allows more freedom and independence, while HD requires fixed schedules and hospital visits.
5. Common use in Indonesia: Hemodialysis is the most widely practiced method, while CAPD is less common due to limited awareness and resources.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HD in medical terms?

HD stands for Hemodialysis, which is when a machine filters waste and fluid from the blood.

What is a hemodialyzer?

A hemodialyzer is the artificial kidney filter used in a dialysis machine.

Why do people need hemodialysis?

Hemodialysis is needed when the kidneys can no longer remove waste and control fluid balance, usually in cases of end-stage renal disease.

What are the three types of hemodialysis?

• Conventional Hemodialysis (HD)
• Expanded Hemodialysis (HDx)
• Hemodiafiltration (HDF)

Why Choose Our Hospital for Dialysis Treatment?

Choosing the right hospital is crucial for individuals requiring dialysis. At Bali International Hospital, we ensure that every patient receives safe, effective, and personalized care.

Our kidney specialists and trained nurses focus on each patient’s unique needs, using advanced dialysis machines and monitoring systems to ensure treatment is both effective and comfortable. For visitors coming to Bali, we also offer travel hemodialysis services.

This means you can still enjoy your holiday or business trip while continuing your regular treatment. Many international and local patients choose this option so they can travel with peace of mind, knowing their health needs are taken care of.

Our Hemodialysis Unit is designed with comfort in mind. Each patient area has modern dialysis machines, comfortable reclining chairs, Wi-Fi, and personal entertainment systems.

We also provide private treatment spaces for those who prefer more privacy. To support overall health, we also provide guidance on nutrition, lifestyle, and ongoing care.

In addition, we offer different Hemodialysis (HD) treatment packages, including:

• Hemodialysis (HD): Standard dialysis to remove waste, salt, and extra fluids.
• Expanded Hemodialysis (HDx): A more advanced option that removes a wider range of toxins.
• Hemodiafiltration (HDF): A combination method for even deeper blood cleaning.

With these options, Bali International Hospital provides complete kidney care in one trusted place. Dialysis is a general term for blood-cleansing treatments, while hemodialysis specifically uses a machine to clean the blood.

Another method, called CAPD dialysis, can be done at home, but it is less common in Indonesia. Whether you live in Bali or are here for a short stay, you can rely on our skilled doctors, advanced machines, and comfortable facilities.

Our goal is not only to extend life but also to make life healthier and more enjoyable. If you or someone you love is living with kidney disease, Bali International Hospital is ready to give expert care and full support every step of the way.