Nephrology – Doral Health & Wellness NY https://doralhw.org Caring for our Community's Health Tue, 09 Dec 2025 21:13:27 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.1 https://doralhw.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/cropped-favicon-doral-32x32.png Nephrology – Doral Health & Wellness NY https://doralhw.org 32 32 Ultrasound guidance for kidney biopsies https://doralhw.org/procedure/ultrasound-guidance-for-kidney-biopsies/ Thu, 02 Oct 2025 17:17:50 +0000 https://doralhw.org/?post_type=procedure&p=39726 What is Ultrasound Guidance for Kidney Biopsies? 

Ultrasound guidance is a technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to visualize the kidney during a biopsy. It allows the doctor to precisely guide the biopsy needle to the correct location, ensuring an accurate tissue sample is obtained while minimizing risk to surrounding structures. 

This technique helps to: 

  • Increase accuracy and safety of kidney biopsies 
  • Minimize complications such as bleeding or injury 
  • Identify the best biopsy site within the kidney 
  • Monitor the needle’s path in real time 
  • Improve diagnostic reliability and procedure success 

What to expect during the procedure? 

  • Performed under local anesthesia with the patient awake or lightly sedated 
  • The patient lies on their stomach (for native kidneys) or back (for transplanted kidneys) 
  • Ultrasound imaging is used throughout to visualize the kidney 
  • A fine needle is inserted under guidance to collect small tissue samples 
  • The procedure typically lasts 20–30 minutes 
  • Short observation afterward to monitor for bleeding or discomfort 
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Tunneled hemodialysis catheter placement https://doralhw.org/procedure/tunneled-hemodialysis-catheter-placement/ Thu, 02 Oct 2025 17:17:30 +0000 https://doralhw.org/?post_type=procedure&p=39725 What is Tunneled Hemodialysis Catheter Placement?

This procedure involves placing a flexible tube (catheter) into a large vein—usually in the chest or neck—to provide access for hemodialysis. The catheter is “tunneled” under the skin before entering the vein, which helps reduce the risk of infection and allows it to remain in place for long-term use.

This procedure helps to:

  • Provide immediate vascular access for hemodialysis
  • Serve as a temporary or long-term solution when fistulas or grafts are not available
  • Enable efficient blood flow for dialysis treatments
  • Maintain stable access for patients awaiting permanent access creation
  • Support ongoing treatment in patients with chronic kidney disease

What to expect during the procedure?

  • Performed under local anesthesia and mild sedation
  • A small incision is made near the collarbone or chest area
  • The catheter is guided into a central vein using imaging (ultrasound or X-ray)
  • The external portion of the catheter exits through a small tunnel in the skin
  • The procedure usually takes 30–60 minutes
  • Patients can typically go home the same day after observation
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Temporary hemodialysis catheter insertion https://doralhw.org/procedure/temporary-hemodialysis-catheter-insertion/ Thu, 02 Oct 2025 17:17:13 +0000 https://doralhw.org/?post_type=procedure&p=39724 What is Temporary Hemodialysis Catheter Insertion? 

This procedure involves placing a soft, flexible tube (catheter) into a large vein—usually in the neck, chest, or groin—to allow quick access for hemodialysis. It provides an immediate way to filter blood and remove waste products when permanent access (like a fistula or graft) is not yet available. 

This procedure helps to: 

  • Provide urgent dialysis access in patients with kidney failure 
  • Allow blood to flow to and from the dialysis machine 
  • Support toxin and fluid removal in emergency situations 
  • Serve as a temporary bridge until permanent access is created 
  • Stabilize patients with acute kidney injury or critical illness 

What to expect during the procedure? 

  • Performed under local anesthesia, sometimes with mild sedation 
  • A catheter is inserted into a large central vein using ultrasound guidance 
  • The tube is secured and connected to the dialysis system 
  • Procedure typically takes 20–40 minutes 
  • Mild pressure or soreness at the insertion site may occur 
  • The catheter remains in place for days to weeks, depending on the patient’s condition 
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Plasmapheresis https://doralhw.org/procedure/plasmapheresis/ Thu, 02 Oct 2025 17:16:48 +0000 https://doralhw.org/?post_type=procedure&p=39722 What is Plasmapheresis? 

Plasmapheresis, or plasma exchange therapy, is a procedure that filters the blood to remove abnormal antibodies, toxins, or proteins contributing to disease. During treatment, the patient’s blood is drawn, plasma is separated and replaced with a clean solution (such as saline or donor plasma), and the blood is returned to the body. 

This treatment helps to: 

  • Remove harmful antibodies or immune complexes 
  • Treat autoimmune and kidney-related diseases 
  • Manage severe cases of glomerulonephritis 
  • Support patients with neurological or hematological disorders 
  • Improve kidney and immune function in certain conditions 

What to expect during the procedure? 

  • Performed in a hospital or dialysis center 
  • Blood is withdrawn through a catheter or veins in the arms 
  • A machine separates plasma and replaces it with a substitute solution 
  • Each session lasts 2–4 hours, depending on the patient’s condition 
  • Mild fatigue or dizziness may occur afterward 
  • Multiple sessions may be needed for best results 
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Peritoneal dialysis catheter insertion https://doralhw.org/procedure/peritoneal-dialysis-catheter-insertion/ Thu, 02 Oct 2025 17:16:32 +0000 https://doralhw.org/?post_type=procedure&p=39721 What is Peritoneal Dialysis Catheter Insertion? 

This procedure involves placing a thin, flexible tube (catheter) into the abdomen to allow fluid exchange during peritoneal dialysis. The catheter provides access to the peritoneal cavity, where a special solution absorbs waste and extra fluid from the blood through the peritoneal membrane. 

This procedure helps to: 

  • Enable peritoneal dialysis for patients with kidney failure 
  • Provide long-term access for home-based dialysis treatment 
  • Maintain comfort and independence for patients preferring self-care dialysis 
  • Support gentle and continuous fluid and toxin removal 
  • Improve quality of life by avoiding frequent hospital visits 

What to expect during the procedure? 

  • Performed under local or general anesthesia 
  • A small incision is made near the navel to insert the catheter 
  • The tube is positioned securely within the abdominal cavity 
  • The procedure usually takes about 30–60 minutes 
  • Patients may go home the same day or after a short observation 
  • Healing typically takes 1–2 weeks before starting dialysis 
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Percutaneous transplant kidney biopsy https://doralhw.org/procedure/percutaneous-transplant-kidney-biopsy/ Thu, 02 Oct 2025 17:16:01 +0000 https://doralhw.org/?post_type=procedure&p=39720 What is Kidney Transplantation Surgery? 

Kidney transplantation is a surgical procedure in which a healthy kidney from a living or deceased donor is placed into a patient whose kidneys have stopped working properly. The transplanted kidney takes over the work of filtering waste and balancing fluids in the body, improving quality of life and survival. 

This procedure helps to: 

  • Restore kidney function in patients with end-stage renal disease 
  • Eliminate the need for long-term dialysis 
  • Improve energy levels and overall health 
  • Regulate fluid and electrolyte balance 
  • Enhance long-term life expectancy 

What to expect during the procedure? 

  • Performed under general anesthesia in a hospital operating room 
  • The donor kidney is placed in the lower abdomen and connected to blood vessels and the bladder 
  • The patient’s own kidneys are usually left in place 
  • Surgery typically lasts 3–4 hours 
  • Hospital stay is around 5–10 days for recovery and monitoring 
  • Lifelong medication is needed to prevent rejection 
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Percutaneous Native Kidney Biopsy  https://doralhw.org/procedure/percutaneous-native-kidney-biopsy/ Tue, 30 Sep 2025 14:00:27 +0000 https://doralhw.org/?post_type=procedure&p=39698 What is a Percutaneous Native Kidney Biopsy? 

A kidney biopsy involves removing tiny samples of kidney tissue using a special needle inserted through the skin. Guided by ultrasound or CT imaging, this procedure helps doctors examine the kidney under a microscope to diagnose various conditions. 

This procedure helps to: 

  • Identify the cause of unexplained kidney problems 
  • Diagnose glomerular or interstitial diseases 
  • Assess the severity of kidney damage 
  • Guide treatment decisions in chronic or acute kidney disease 
  • Monitor response to therapy or kidney disease progression 

What to expect during the procedure? 

  • Performed under local anesthesia with or without sedation 
  • Imaging (ultrasound or CT) guides the biopsy needle 
  • Patients lie on their stomach to allow access to the kidney 
  • Pressure is applied after the biopsy to reduce bleeding risk 
  • Usually requires a short hospital stay for observation 
  • Mild soreness at the biopsy site is common for a few days 
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Interventional Procedures on Hemodialysis Access (Thrombectomy, Angioplasty, Stenting)  https://doralhw.org/procedure/interventional-procedures-on-hemodialysis-access-thrombectomy-angioplasty-stenting/ Tue, 30 Sep 2025 13:55:41 +0000 https://doralhw.org/?post_type=procedure&p=39696 What are Interventional Procedures on Hemodialysis Access? 

These procedures are performed to treat blockages or narrowing in the blood vessels used for hemodialysis access (such as arteriovenous fistulas or grafts). Using imaging guidance, doctors can restore blood flow and keep the access functioning, which is essential for ongoing dialysis treatment. 

These treatments help to: 

  • Remove blood clots that block dialysis access (thrombectomy) 
  • Widen narrowed vessels using a balloon (angioplasty) 
  • Place a small mesh tube (stent) to keep the vessel open 
  • Ensure reliable blood flow for dialysis sessions 
  • Prolong the lifespan of the vascular access 

What to expect during the procedure? 

  • Performed in a hospital or outpatient interventional radiology suite 
  • Local anesthesia and mild sedation are typically used 
  • A catheter is inserted through a small incision to access the vessel 
  • Imaging (X-ray or ultrasound) guides the procedure 
  • Most patients go home the same day 
  • Mild soreness or bruising at the insertion site may occur 
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Diagnostic Kidney Ultrasound  https://doralhw.org/procedure/diagnostic-kidney-ultrasound/ Tue, 30 Sep 2025 13:32:39 +0000 https://doralhw.org/?post_type=procedure&p=39694 What is a Diagnostic Kidney Ultrasound? 

A diagnostic kidney ultrasound is a safe and painless procedure that creates images of the kidneys and urinary tract using high-frequency sound waves. It helps doctors detect abnormalities, such as kidney stones, cysts, tumors, or blockages, and evaluate kidney size and blood flow. 

This test helps to: 

  • Identify structural problems in the kidneys 
  • Detect stones, cysts, or tumors 
  • Assess blood flow and circulation in the renal arteries 
  • Monitor chronic kidney disease progression 
  • Guide further diagnostic or treatment decisions 

What to expect during the procedure? 

  • The patient lies on an exam table, usually on the back or side 
  • A special gel is applied to the skin over the kidneys 
  • A handheld device (transducer) is moved over the area to capture images 
  • The procedure is painless and typically lasts 15–30 minutes 
  • No recovery time is required, and patients can resume normal activities immediately 
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Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy (CRRT) https://doralhw.org/procedure/continuous-renal-replacement-therapy-crrt/ Tue, 30 Sep 2025 13:22:40 +0000 https://doralhw.org/?post_type=procedure&p=39692 What is CRRT? 

CRRT is a type of dialysis performed 24 hours a day in an intensive care setting. It gently removes waste products, toxins, and excess fluids from the blood when the kidneys are not functioning properly. This method is less stressful on the body than traditional dialysis, making it suitable for unstable or critically ill patients. 

This treatment helps to: 

  • Remove waste and toxins from the blood 
  • Control fluid balance in patients with severe illness 
  • Correct electrolyte and acid-base imbalances 
  • Support kidney function until recovery or transition to standard dialysis 
  • Improve stability in patients with sepsis or multiple organ failure 

What to expect during treatment? 

CRRT is performed in the hospital, usually in the intensive care unit (ICU). 

  • Continuous 24-hour therapy with close monitoring 
  • Gentle and gradual fluid removal compared to standard dialysis 
  • Connection to a dialysis machine through a central venous catheter 
  • Possible mild discomfort at the catheter site 
  • Daily adjustments based on blood test results 
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