Dialysis and Peritoneal Access Dialysis In end-stage kidney disease, kidney functions can be replaced only by dialysis or by kidney transplantation. The planning for dialysis and transplantation is usually started in stage 4 of chronic kidney disease. Most patients are candidates for both hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis (see below). There are few differences in outcomes between the two procedures. Our physicians or educator will discuss the appropriate options with the p

What Is Chronic Kidney Disease? Chronic kidney disease occurs when one suffers from gradual and usually permanent loss of kidney function over time. This happens gradually, usually over months to years. Chronic kidney disease is divided into five stages of increasing severity: Stage I: Slight damage to the kidney(s) damage Stage II: Mild decrease in kidney function Stage III: Moderate decrease in kidney function Stage 4: Severe decrease in kidney function Stage 5: Kidney fail