B12.4 + B 12.5 - Kidney Failure (Finished) Flashcards
What is the problem with kidney failure?
If kidneys don’t work properly, waste substances build up in the blood and you loose the ability to control the level of ions and water in the body
How does dialysis work?
1 In a dialysis machine the person’s blood flows through partially permeable membranes (like those in the kidneys) surrounded by dialysis fluid
2) The dialysis fluid has the same concentration of dissolved ions and glucose as healthy blood
3) Only waste products (urea) and excess water, mineral ions diffuse across the membrane so useful dissolved ions and glucose are not lost
Why is protein not removed by the kidneys?
It is a too big molecule to fit through the membrane, like blood cells
How often must dialysis be done?
Dialysis must be done regularly to keep concentrations of dissolved substances in blood at normal levels. 3 sessions a week lasting 3-4 hours each.
Appart from time taken what are problems with dialysis?
- Dialysis may cause blood clots or infections
- Being on a dialysis machine is unpleasant
- Dialysis is expensive for the NHS to run
What is the advantage of dialysis?
Dysalisis can keep a person alive till a donor kidney is found
What is dialysis?
Dialysis is when the function of the kidney is carried out artificially
Where are healthy kidneys for a kidney transplant usually taken from?
People who have died suddenly. They must be on the organ donor register and carry a donor card
Where other from dead people can kidneys be transplanted from?
Living people. We all have two kidneys but there is a small risk for the kidney donor
What are the problems of kidney transplants?
- There is a risk that the donor kidney may be rejected by the patient’s immune system
- There are long waiting lists for kidneys
How is the problem of kidney rejection (transplant) reduced?
Kidney donors with similar tissue types are found, the patient is also treated with drugs to try and prevent it
What is the advantage if kidney transplants over dialysis?
Transplants are cheaper than dialysis, and can put an end to the hours patients spend in dialysis. Also dialysis can cause serious damage to the body after A long time
