What is extracorporeal hemodialysis?

Extracorporeal hemodialysis is a medical procedure used to filter waste products and excess fluids from the blood in patients with kidney failure. During the process, blood is drawn from the body and passed through a dialyzer, or artificial kidney, where it is cleaned before being returned to the body. This treatment helps to maintain the body's electrolyte balance and remove toxins that the kidneys can no longer filter effectively. Hemodialysis is typically performed in a clinical setting, though home hemodialysis options are also available.