Many individuals today are struggling with both chronic and acute kidney diseases, requiring medical attention. As the condition progresses to kidney failure, dialysis often becomes the primary solution to sustain kidney function until a transplant can be arranged.

While two types of dialysis are available in other countries, the Maldives offers only hemodialysis. Hemodialysis, which requires treatment in a hospital, can be challenging for patients, especially those in rural areas who have limited access to this service. This lack of accessibility creates significant difficulties for those in need of regular treatment.

Dr. Mladen Knotek, the Medical Director of Tree Top Hospital, acknowledged the challenges faced by patients in the Maldives. He explained, “Hemodialysis requires several hospital visits each week, and patients, particularly from rural regions, have expressed frustration over the need to travel to Malé or other islands with the necessary facilities. This has led to many people sharing their concerns and even crying over the situation.”

Dr. Knotek went on to highlight that hemodialysis is the only dialysis treatment currently available in the country, whereas other nations offer an alternative: peritoneal dialysis. "In many healthcare-developed nations, patients with kidney failure have the option to undergo peritoneal dialysis at home," he noted. "This treatment can be self-administered or performed with help from another person."

Peritoneal dialysis involves the use of a device to administer the treatment, requiring a catheter to be inserted into the abdomen. However, it may not be suitable for individuals who have undergone major abdominal surgeries. There are two types of peritoneal dialysis: manual dialysis, which requires connecting the device to the catheter three to four times a day, and automated peritoneal dialysis, which only requires a connection at night, with the manual process performed automatically.

Both methods can be safely carried out by patients once they have received proper guidance and training. Dr. Knotek emphasized that this form of dialysis provides patients with greater freedom and convenience, offering relief from the need for frequent hospital visits.

Recognizing the need for this treatment, Tree Top Hospital introduced peritoneal dialysis at the end of last month. Dr. Knotek explained, "We introduced this service because we understand how crucial it is for an island nation like the Maldives. It allows patients to manage their dialysis independently and safely."

Although peritoneal dialysis is a new service in the Maldives, many Maldivians have been seeking this treatment in neighboring countries. "Though it's new here, some patients are already undergoing peritoneal dialysis," Dr. Knotek said.

The service was introduced with the support of urology and transplant specialist Dr. Ivan Neretljak, who visited the hospital last month. Tree Top Hospital now offers peritoneal dialysis to Maldivians through various insurance schemes, including those for the Police, MNDF, and private health insurance.

For those interested in this treatment, they can contact Tree Top Hospital's call center at 3351610. Dr. Knotek also mentioned that the hospital is continuously working to expand its services to make it easier for patients to access the care they need.