Why dialysis machine is considered as artificial kidney?

A dialysis machine is considered an artificial kidney because it performs functions similar to those of the natural kidneys. The primary function of the kidneys is to filter waste products, excess water, and electrolytes from the blood. Dialysis machines replicate this process by filtering the blood through a semipermeable membrane.

Here's how a dialysis machine works:

1. Blood Flow: The dialysis machine connects to the patient's bloodstream through needles inserted into specific blood vessels. The blood is pumped out of the body and into the dialysis machine.

2. Dialysis Membrane: The blood flows through a dialyzer, which contains a semipermeable membrane. This membrane acts as a barrier, allowing waste products and excess water to pass through while retaining essential components like red blood cells and proteins.

3. Filtration: On the other side of the membrane is a dialysate solution, a fluid that contains essential electrolytes and minerals balanced to mimic the composition of healthy blood. The waste products and excess water from the blood diffuse across the membrane into the dialysate solution, while necessary substances remain in the blood.

4. Continuous Circulation: The filtered blood, now cleansed of waste products, is returned to the patient's body through the dialysis machine. This process of filtration, known as hemodialysis, occurs continuously during the dialysis session, which typically lasts for several hours.

In addition to removing waste products, the dialysis machine also helps regulate electrolyte balance and fluid levels in the body, which are crucial for maintaining the proper functioning of various organs and systems.

While dialysis machines effectively perform some of the essential functions of the kidneys, they cannot fully replace the complex physiological processes carried out by healthy kidneys. Dialysis serves as a temporary measure for individuals with kidney failure or severe kidney impairment until a kidney transplant can be performed or the kidneys recover their function.