The New England Journal of Medicine has published a video guide to placing an emergency dialysis catheter using a method designed for settings where specialist equipment may not be available.
The New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM) posted the announcement on its official social media account, flagging a new Video in Clinical Medicine that walks clinicians through how to insert a catheter for emergency peritoneal dialysis (a process that filters waste from the blood through the lining of the abdomen when the kidneys fail) in adult patients.
The technique shown has been developed specifically for use in resource-limited environments — settings where the full range of hospital equipment may not be on hand. That makes it potentially relevant beyond major medical centres, including in emergency or remote situations where kidney failure requires urgent treatment but conventional dialysis machines are unavailable.
Peritoneal dialysis works by introducing fluid into the abdominal cavity, allowing the body’s own membrane (the peritoneum) to act as a filter before the fluid is drained away. It differs from the more familiar haemodialysis, which cleans blood outside the body through a machine.
The NEJM is a peer-reviewed medical journal and one of the most widely cited clinical publications in the world. Videos in Clinical Medicine are produced to support practising doctors with practical procedural guidance.
NHS guidance on kidney failure and dialysis options is available through NHS 111 or by speaking to a GP. Anyone with concerns about kidney health should contact their doctor rather than seeking emergency treatment independently.
Key information
- For kidney health concerns: speak to your GP or call NHS 111
- In a medical emergency: call 999 immediately
- NHS information on dialysis is available through NHS 111 or the NHS website
Source: @NEJM
New Emergency Kidney Treatment Technique Shown in Medical Video Quiz
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