A patient who has reached a stage of ESRD i.e end stage renal disease does require dialysis in either hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis form for rest of life. the only way to stop dialysis would be to get a renal transplant done. The life span on dialysis is much better now than it was a decade back. although the proceddure of hemodialysis has its complication but all such complication are easily managed in a good dialysis center by a competent nephrologist.

It depends & varies from patient to patient.life expectancy is reasonably good for those who needs occasional dialysis. dialysis is primarily used to provide an artificial replacement for lost kidney function in people with renal failure. Dialysis may be used for those with an acute disturbance in kidney function ( previously acute renal failure) or for those with progressive & chronically worsening kidney function– chronic renal disease (previously chronic renal failure ). dialysis may be used as a "holding measure" until a renal transplant can be arranged or performed, or as supportive measure in those where a transplant would be inappropriate.or not advisable.Disclaimer