CCPD
Most people who do PD use a cycler machine at night while they sleep. This is called CCPD.
- C = continuous
- C = cycling
- P = peritoneal
- D = dialysis
The cycler does lots of exchanges at night while the patient is sleeping. Sometimes CCPD is called automated PD (APD).
Some people who do CCPD have their days free from PD exchanges. Others do CCPD at night plus one or more exchanges during the day to feel their best and remove enough water.
The cycler weighs about 25 pounds and fits into a suitcase for travel. Or, people on CCPD can do CAPD exchanges when they travel. Bags of PD fluid can be shipped to your destination.
Because PD is a self-care form of treatment, Medicare starts right away instead of 3 months down the line. This can help those who don't have other health coverage. If PD training starts before the 3rd month of dialysis, Medicare can pay for PD catheter placement.
Research has found that PD helps people keep their remaining kidney function longer. Having more kidney function can mean feeling better, with fewer diet and fluid limits. Many people with kidney problems also have heart problems. PD is a gentle treatment that is easy on the heart.
The Affordable Care Act May Help YOU!
Are you a U.S. citizen or legal resident? If you can't get Medicare or any other health plan, you may be able to get a marketplace plan under the ACA, even with kidney problems. The open enrollment period is 11/15–1/15 each year. Some health problems give you a chance to enroll outside this period. Call 800-318-2596 to learn more.
How Well Does PD Work?
PD is more likely to give good dialysis for people who are small, and people whose kidneys still work a little bit (called "residual kidney function"). It is vital to measure kidney function on PD. As the kidneys keep failing, more PD may be needed.
Infections of the peritoneum, called peritonitis, can make PD less effective by causing scar tissue. Some people who get peritonitis have to stop doing PD.
So why choose PD? People have different reasons:
"I like the idea of being in control of my treatment. My CAPD exchange takes about 1/2 hour, four times a day. I do it when I get up in the morning, at lunchtime, when I get home, and before I go to bed. When away from home, I exchange in my car." –Jose
"I chose PD mostly because of the relaxed diet—I love milk, tomatoes, baked potatoes, apricots, oranges, etc." –Michelle
