Nephrology

Overview

The Department of Nephrology at Believers Hospital is dedicated to delivering high-quality, patient-
centered kidney care, focused on achieving optimal clinical outcomes. Equipped with advanced
technology and evidence-based practices, the department provides comprehensive management for a
wide spectrum of renal disorders, including clinical nephrology, hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis,
interventional nephrology, critical care nephrology, and renal transplantation. Our dedicated team of
nephrologists, skilled technicians, and nurses is here to assist kidney patients in maximizing their
quality of life while ensuring they receive the best possible care.


With a high-volume outpatient service and extensive experience in renal replacement therapies, the
department performs approximately 2,500 hemodialysis sessions each month and conducts regular
renal transplant procedures. Expertise in interventional nephrology enables precise management of
vascular access and advanced dialysis-related interventions. The department offers specialty clinics
and emphasizes preventive nephrology.


In addition to clinical excellence, the department is actively involved in academic and training
initiatives, including a DrNB Nephrology program in association with CMC Vellore, a dedicated
POCUS Academy, and regular educational programs such as workshops, conferences, and CMEs.
Through integrated patient care and strong academic engagement, the department continues to set
high standards in nephrology services and education.

Services

Hemodialysis

Hemodialysis & Advanced Extracorporeal Therapies
Hemodialysis unit at BCMCH is a high-volume center of excellence, performing an average of 2,500
dialysis sessions per month. The facility is engineered to deliver safe, efficient, and compassionate
renal replacement therapy (RRT) through a multi-disciplinary team of expert nephrologists,
specialized nurses, and certified dialysis technicians. We have advanced centrifugal apheresis
machines for therapeutic plasma exchange.


Specialized Dialysis Modalities
Standard Hemodialysis (HD)
SLED (Sustained Low-Efficiency Dialysis)
SCUF (Slow Continuous Ultrafiltration)
CRRT (Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy)
PIRRT (Prolonged Intermittent Renal Replacement Therapy)


Advanced Blood Purification Services
Plasmapheresis (Therapeutic Plasma Exchange)
Hemoperfusion

Peritoneal Dialysis


At BCMCH, we believe kidney care should integrate seamlessly into daily life. As a designated
Center of Excellence for Peritoneal Dialysis (Home dialysis), we specialize in providing a patient-
centered alternative to traditional hemodialysis, enabling individuals to manage their health within the
comfort of their own homes.
We are also a leading PD troubleshooting center in Central Kerala, offering expert support for
complex cases and complications. Additionally, we have a dedicated ward exclusively for Peritoneal
Dialysis patients, ensuring focused and specialized inpatient care whenever required.

Our PD Center of Excellence
Comprehensive Training Program: The center provides structured, one-on-one training modules for
patients and caregivers, ensuring competency in home-based PD procedures, infection prevention
protocols, and complication recognition prior to independent therapy initiation.
24/7 Clinical Support System: A dedicated and experienced PD nursing team offers round-the-clock
clinical support for troubleshooting, emergency guidance, and protocol-based intervention, ensuring
uninterrupted care delivery.
Integrated Multidisciplinary Care: The program is supported by a specialized team comprising
nephrologists, PD technicians, trained nursing staff, and renal dietitians.

Advancing Care: Professional Training Hub
Beyond patient care, BCMCH is a vital training hub for the medical community. We are committed
to expanding access to Peritoneal Dialysis by empowering healthcare teams from other institutions,
providing structured training to help them establish and run their own independent PD programs.

Critical Care Nephrology


The Department of Nephrology at Believers Hospital provides comprehensive Critical Care
Nephrology services for critically ill patients. We offer advanced extracorporeal renal support

therapies such as Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy (CRRT) for hemodynamically unstable
patients, plasmapheresis for immune-mediated and antibody-related disorders, and hemoperfusion for
toxin removal and severe inflammatory states. The department also provides advanced management
for snake envenomation and its complications. These therapies are delivered using advanced medical
technology and evidence-based protocols, in close collaboration with intensivists and other specialty
teams, ensuring timely intervention and optimal outcomes for critically ill patients.

Interventional Nephrology


Our Interventional Nephrology unit is a leading center for dialysis access and kidney-related
procedures, led by nephrologists with specialized interventional training. The unit is supported by a
dedicated Interventional Nephrology laboratory equipped for advanced procedures and also functions
as a regional referral center for complex and high-risk cases. We are pioneers in ultrasound guided
AV fistula interventions and have popularized innovative techniques across multiple states and the
country. These methods offer a highly cost-effective alternative to cath lab–based interventions and
are part of our hospital’s patient-first initiative.

Services Performed
Services Offered

 

Vascular Access & Dialysis Procedures
Central Venous Catheter Placement (Tunneled and Non-Tunneled)
Peritoneal Dialysis Catheter Insertion
AVF Fistuloplasty
AV Fistula Thrombolysis
 

Diagnostics & Imaging
Doppler Evaluation of AV Fistula and Venous Mapping
Ultrasound-Guided Renal Biopsy
IVC Assessment

Specialty Clinics


At Believers Hospital, our Department of Nephrology offers a range of specialty clinics to provide
focused, expert care for patients with specific kidney-related conditions. Each clinic is led by
experienced nephrologists and supported by a multidisciplinary team, ensuring personalized care and
optimal outcomes.
1. Onco-Nephrology Clinic
2. Peritoneal Dialysis (PD) Clinic
3. Hypertension Clinic
4. CKM (Chronic Kidney–Metabolic) Clinic
5. Stone Clinic
6. UTI Clinic for Women

Onco-Nephrology Clinic
Our Onco-Nephrology Clinic—the first of its kind in India—is dedicated to providing comprehensive
kidney care for patients with cancer. We offer specialized management for individuals undergoing
chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy, with close monitoring of kidney function and
early identification and treatment of therapy-related renal complications. The clinic works in close
collaboration with oncology and hematology teams to ensure safe, seamless, and integrated care
throughout the cancer treatment journey.

Areas of Care:
Kidney Function Monitoring – Regular assessment during cancer therapy.
Management of Therapy-Related Kidney Complications – Early identification and treatment
of nephrotoxic effects.
Integrated Care with Oncology Teams – Collaborative approach for personalized treatment
plans.
Prevention of Kidney Injury – Strategies to minimize renal risk during cancer treatment.
Supportive Care for Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Patients – Specialized guidance for
patients with pre-existing kidney conditions.
Patient Education & Counseling – Guidance on renal health during and after cancer therapy.
Follow-up & Long-Term Monitoring – Ongoing care to ensure kidney health post-treatment.

Peritoneal Dialysis (PD) Clinic

Our PD Clinic, conducted on Tuesdays and Fridays, provides comprehensive care for patients
undergoing peritoneal dialysis. Services include patient training, catheter care, prevention and
management of complications, and continuous clinical monitoring. We cater to both acute peritoneal
dialysis and long-term Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD), with a strong emphasis
on patient independence and quality of life. The clinic is supported by specially trained PD
technicians and nursing staff who provide ongoing monitoring, education, and dedicated patient
support.

Hypertension Clinic

Hypertension Clinic offers specialized evaluation and management of high blood pressure,
particularly in patients with kidney disease as well as those with newly detected hypertension. We
emphasize accurate diagnosis, lifestyle modification, and individualized, advanced treatment
strategies to prevent kidney damage and cardiovascular complications. The clinic is equipped with
Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring (ABPM) and comprehensive assessment methods to ensure
precise blood pressure evaluation and optimal long-term control.

Chronic Kidney-Metabolic (CKM) Clinic


Our Chronic Kidney-Metabolic (CKM) Clinic offers comprehensive care for patients with kidney and
metabolic health concerns. We focus on prevention, early detection, and holistic management to
support long-term wellness.

Services & Focus Areas:
Risk Assessment & Early Detection
Lifestyle & Wellness Support
Metabolic Health Management
Kidney Protection & CKD Care
Cardiovascular Health
Integrated Medication Management
Multidisciplinary Care
Patient Education & Empowerment
Ongoing Monitoring & Follow-up

Stone Clinic

The Stone Clinic provides expert care for patients with kidney stones, including evaluation, medical
management, prevention strategies, and coordination for minimally invasive procedures when
required. We focus on preventing recurrence and preserving kidney function.

Services & Focus Areas:
Comprehensive Evaluation
Medical Management
Minimally Invasive Procedures
Recurrence Prevention
Kidney Health Preservation
Patient Education & Counseling
Follow-up & Monitoring

UTI Clinic for Women
Our UTI Clinic for women specializes in the evaluation and management of recurrent urinary tract
infections and is led by an experienced female nephrologist, with particular attention to patients with
underlying kidney disease. We provide targeted diagnostic evaluation, preventive strategies, and
individualized treatment plans aimed at protecting renal health and reducing recurrence.
Clinic Services:
Comprehensive Diagnostic Evaluation
Individualized Treatment Plans
Preventive Strategies
Kidney Health Protection
Patient Education & Counseling
Follow-up & Monitoring


Renal Transplantation


Renal transplantation services are offered through a coordinated multidisciplinary team comprising
experienced nephrologists, transplant surgeons, urologists, transplant coordinators, and specially
trained nursing staff. The program emphasizes comprehensive pre-transplant evaluation, precise
surgical management, and structured post-transplant care to ensure optimal graft function and long-

term patient outcomes. Care is delivered using standardized protocols and a collaborative approach,
ensuring safety, continuity, and high-quality transplant care.

DrNB Nephrology


The DrNB Nephrology programme at Believers Church Medical College Hospital, Thiruvalla,
offers two seats and is meticulously designed to train fully competent and confident
nephrologists capable of independently handling complex renal challenges. With a high patient
load and a diverse case mix, candidates receive extensive clinical exposure across the entire
spectrum of nephrology.
The department houses one of the most advanced Interventional Nephrology and Peritoneal
Dialysis units in the state, with a dedicated ward. The programme provides hands-on training in
AV fistula balloon angioplasty and thrombolysis, PD catheter insertion, permanent and
temporary dialysis catheter placement, and ultrasound-guided renal biopsy. Boasting the highest
peritoneal dialysis patient load in the region, the programme ensures strong expertise in
peritoneal dialysis alongside comprehensive haemodialysis training. Additionally, candidates
undergo a six-month external residency at Christian Medical College, Vellore, for transplant
exposure, making this programme one of the most comprehensive and sought-after DrNB
Nephrology training programmes in the country.

Academic Programs & Research


We conduct regular academic activities including conferences, CMEs, and workshops to support
continuous learning and professional development. Our programs focus on Nephrology,
Interventional Nephrology, and Peritoneal Dialysis, with events organized on a regular basis. We also
run a dedicated POCUS Academy for point-of-care ultrasound training, widely recognized among
clinicians and nephrology professionals, evidenced by participation across the country for the
periodic pocus workshop. Acceptance and popularity.
We are actively involved in research and regularly publish our clinical studies in national and
international nephrology journals.

We conduct regular academic activities, including conferences, CMEs, and workshops, to
promote continuous learning and professional development. Our academic programs focus on
Nephrology, Interventional Nephrology, and Peritoneal Dialysis, with events organized at
regular intervals throughout the year.
We also run a dedicated POCUS Academy for Point-of-Care Ultrasound training. The academy
is widely recognized among clinicians and nephrology professionals, with participants attending
periodic POCUS workshops from across the country.
In addition, we are actively involved in research and regularly publish our clinical studies in
national and international nephrology journals.

 

Preventive Nephrology


The Preventive Nephrology Program at Believers Hospital emphasizes early detection, risk reduction,
and health promotion to prevent kidney disease or slow its progression. It is designed for individuals
of all ages—from children to adults—focusing on education, awareness, and lifestyle modification to
promote long-term kidney health.
As part of this initiative, our School Campaign aims to instill healthy habits from a young age,
encouraging children to adopt lifestyle patterns that prevent kidney disease and other metabolic
disorders, laying the foundation for lifelong wellness.

Specialists

FAQ

Dialysis is a medical process through which a person’s blood is cleansed of the toxins or wastes that kidneys normally remove. It is used when a person’s kidneys no longer function optimally. The purpose is to keep the right levels of chemicals, fluids and salts in the body so that the body functions normally.

 

Like healthy kidneys, dialysis keeps your body in balance. It removes waste, salt and extra water, keeps a safe level of certain chemicals in your blood, such as potassium, sodium and bicarbonate and helps to control blood pressure. A session of hemodialysis usually takes 4 hours three times a week whereas peritoneal dialysis is a continuous process.

 

While on dialysis you should watch your diet. In case of any breathing trouble you should contact your doctor as you may require urgent dialysis. Care of the vascular access should be ensured as advised by your physician.

 

Renal dialysis falls into two main divisions: haemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis. Hemodialysis cleans and filters your blood using a machine to temporarily remove harmful wastes, extra salt, and extra water from your body. Hemodialysis is most often performed in a dialysis centre but home treatment options are also available.

Peritoneal dialysis uses the lining of your abdomen and dialysis solution (a mixture of minerals and sugar dissolved in water) to filter your blood removing wastes, chemicals and extra water from your body. After several hours, the used solution is drained from your abdomen through a tube and the cycle is repeated with fresh solution

 

Peritoneal dialysis is a treatment for kidney failure that uses the lining of your abdomen
(peritoneum) to filter waste and excess fluid from your blood. Unlike hemodialysis, which
requires a machine and hospital visits, PD is performed at home.

A sterile dialysis solution is introduced into your abdomen through a soft tube (catheter). The
solution absorbs waste and excess fluid through the peritoneal membrane. After a few hours, the
fluid is drained and replaced with fresh solution.


Types of PD:
? Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD): Manual exchanges 3–5 times
daily.
? Automated Peritoneal Dialysis (APD): Uses a machine at night while you sleep.

PD may be suitable for patients with chronic kidney disease or end-stage renal failure who:
Prefer home-based treatment
Can perform self-care or have reliable caregiver support
PD can also be adapted for children, elderly patients, and those with mobility challenges,
provided there is proper supervision or caregiver assistance.

  • Flexible schedule and independence
  • Continuous, gentle waste removal (easier on the heart)
  • Fewer dietary restrictions than hemodialysis
  • Reduced hospital visits

While generally safe, PD carries some risks:
Peritonitis: Infection of the peritoneum (symptoms: abdominal pain, fever, cloudy fluid)
Catheter-related infections
Hernias due to increased abdominal pressure
Proper hygiene, technique, and regular follow-ups reduce most risks.

1. Consult your nephrologist for assessment.
2. Have a catheter placed surgically in your abdomen.
3. Receive training from a specialized nurse on PD exchanges and hygiene.
4. Begin home-based PD with ongoing monitoring and support from your healthcare team.
5. Caregiver or family support is especially important for children, elderly, or patients with
mobility challenges.

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