Would dialysis be suggested to improve kidney conditions ?
Patient: My father had colon surgery 2 months ago and has been in the hospital 4 times with complications. After the incision ruptured and he became septic, he had emergency surgery and was given a colostomy until the colon is healed. He is now in the hospital because of a seizure which was caused my his electrolytes being out of balance. This is the 2nd time in a month he has been admitted due to a seizure, out of balance electrolytes and poor kidney function. The doctor said his kidneys are not working properly because the location of the colostomy is expelling the waste before the liquids are being absorbed in the body. It looks like they are going to start dialysis for now until his kidneys are working properly. All other test looks good and readings look good. Is this a normal practice? Many thanks! Doctor: Hello and welcome to HCM.As an Urologist, i've understood your anxiety and express my concern too.I'll need certain details to be able to give an expert opinion on dialysis.Seizures are commonly seen in people ,who have electrolyte imbalance, with low sodium levels. With kidney failure, seen by rising creatinine levels, septicemia can set in, and if rise of creatinine,urea,and potassium level takes place, or fluid retention is seen on ultrasound scan of abdomen,or chest X-ray/CT for chest fluid, a dialysis will be urgently required.Unless i know his urea,creatinine,sodium,potassium, and scan reports,it's difficult to answer your query. kindly mention,which colostomy is done.For my expert opinion, send reports, as a direct question to me.Dr.Matthew J. Mangat.