1. Avoid emergency dialysis planning when possible
Progressive kidney failure is easier to manage when dialysis modality and access are discussed before an emergency. Patients already receiving dialysis need continuity of treatment; travel plans must be coordinated around the existing schedule and clinical stability.
2. Hemodialysis requires vascular access or a dialysis catheter
Heidelberg University Hospital describes hemodialysis as extracorporeal blood purification performed through a dialysis access such as an arteriovenous fistula/shunt or central dialysis catheter. The appropriate access strategy depends on urgency, anatomy and long-term plan.
3. Peritoneal dialysis is a different home-based pathway
Heidelberg’s nephrology program lists peritoneal dialysis among its specialist areas. Suitability depends on medical, practical and home-care factors and should be discussed with an experienced nephrology team rather than assumed from lifestyle preference alone.
4. Dialysis and kidney transplantation are separate decisions
Germany’s federal health portal lists dialysis and kidney transplantation as options for terminal kidney failure. Transplantation is governed by separate eligibility and allocation rules; paying privately for nephrology care does not create priority for a deceased-donor organ.
5. What to send for a dialysis-planning second opinion
Useful information includes the course of kidney function, current symptoms and whether access planning has started.
- Recent nephrology summary
- Creatinine/eGFR and potassium trend
- Current dialysis prescription if already on dialysis
- Vascular-access or peritoneal-access history
- Cardiac and vascular comorbidities
- Previous transplant assessment, if any
Official and primary sources
Sources last checked 2026-09-21.