Hemodialysis is the most common treatment for chronic kidney failure (end-stage renal disease). The procedure cleanses the blood of wastes and excess fluid after the kidneys can no longer perform these functions.

Blood is usually drawn through a needle inserted into the arm. The blood is sent through a dialysis machine that removes impurities and excess fluid. The cleansed blood is returned through another tube and needle.

The procedure lasts several hours and is typically performed three times a week. Most patients have hemodialysis at a clinic, but some receive training to handle the treatment at home or have a visiting caregiver perform the procedure.

Hemodialysis is the more widespread of the two types of dialysis. The other, peritoneal dialysis, involves use of a tube that has been permanently implanted in the abdomen.

Dialysis does not cure chronic kidney failure and usually continues for life unless a kidney transplant is possible. In rare cases, an individual with chronic kidney disease can be taken off hemodialysis because of improved kidney function.

Hospitals sometimes use hemodialysis short-term to treat acute kidney failure due to causes such as blood loss, poisoning or infection.