Clinical & Critical Nephrology

Clinical and Critical Nephrology is a specialized field of medicine that deals with the diagnosis and management of kidney diseases in a clinical setting, often involving critically ill patients. The focus is on the kidneys' functions, including fluid and electrolyte balance, toxins removal, blood pressure regulation, and the maintenance of acid-base balance. It encompasses a wide range of disorders, from chronic kidney disease (CKD) to acute kidney injury (AKI), electrolyte disturbances, glomerular diseases, renal replacement therapy, and management of comorbid conditions in patients with kidney disease.

Conditions Treated

• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): A progressive condition characterized by a gradual loss of kidney function over time. Clinical nephrologists play a crucial role in managing CKD, providing personalized treatment plans to slow its progression and alleviate symptoms.
• Acute Kidney Injury (AKI): Sudden and rapid loss of kidney function, often occurring in response to severe illness, trauma, or certain medications. Early intervention by critical nephrologists is vital in reversing or managing AKI.
• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Nephrologists are skilled in diagnosing and managing hypertension, which can lead to kidney damage if left untreated.
• Diabetic Nephropathy: Kidney damage caused by diabetes is a common concern. Nephrologists work closely with endocrinologists to provide specialized care for patients with diabetes-related kidney complications.
• Glomerular Diseases: These conditions affect the glomeruli, tiny filters within the kidneys. Nephrologists conduct thorough assessments and implement targeted treatment strategies.
• Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD): A genetic disorder characterized by the growth of cysts within the kidneys. Nephrologists are skilled in managing PKD and addressing associated complications.
• Kidney Stones: Nephrologists provide expert guidance on dietary and lifestyle modifications to prevent recurrent kidney stones.
• Nephrotic Syndrome: A group of symptoms indicating kidney damage, often associated with conditions like diabetes or autoimmune diseases.
• Electrolyte Disorders: Nephrologists monitor and treat imbalances in essential minerals like sodium, potassium, calcium, and phosphorus.

Key Procedures

The Department of Clinical and Critical Nephrology offers a range of advanced interventions to address complex kidney issues:

• Renal Replacement Therapy (RRT): This includes hemodialysis, hemodiafiltration, peritoneal dialysis, and continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) for patients with severe kidney failure.
• Plasmapheresis: A specialized procedure used to remove harmful substances from the blood, often employed in autoimmune kidney diseases.
• Kidney Biopsies: These procedures help diagnose the underlying cause of kidney disease by examining a small sample of kidney tissue.
• Peritoneal Dialysis (PD): In select cases, peritoneal dialysis may be used in critically ill patients. It involves using the peritoneal membrane in the abdomen as a natural filter for waste removal.
• Vascular Access Management: Ensuring proper access to hemodialysis is crucial. Nephrologists are skilled in creating and maintaining arteriovenous fistulas or grafts.

Key Advantages

• Expert Care for Kidney Diseases: Nephrologists are experts in diagnosing and managing a range of kidney diseases, from chronic conditions like CKD to acute issues like AKI. Their specialized knowledge is crucial in providing the most effective treatments.
• Management of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Clinical nephrology focuses on the long-term management of CKD, aiming to slow disease progression and improve quality of life. This includes optimizing medication regimens, dietary advice, and monitoring for complications.
• Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) Intervention: In critical nephrology, nephrologists provide life-saving interventions for AKI. This includes rapid assessment and treatment, which can significantly reduce the risk of long-term kidney damage.
• Advanced Treatment Options: Nephrologists are trained in the latest renal replacement therapies, including hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, and continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT). These treatments are vital for patients with severe kidney dysfunction.
• Electrolyte and Fluid Balance Management: Nephrologists expertly manage complex fluid and electrolyte disorders, which are common in kidney disease and can be life-threatening if not correctly addressed.
• Renal Transplantation Management: Clinical nephrologists play a crucial role in both pre-and post-transplant care, including managing immunosuppressive therapy and monitoring for transplant rejection.

Call 011-42888888 to book an appointment with a specialist at Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute.