Dialysis is a common procedure used to treat patients with end-stage kidney failure. At this stage, the kidneys can no longer function by themselves and dialysis is used to rid the body of excess salt, waste and water.

The National Kidney Foundation also says dialysis can regulate vital chemicals in the blood -- such as potassium, sodium and bicarbonate. It can also help control blood pressure.

Dialysis is not a cure for kidney disease. Many people must undergo dialysis for the rest of their lives.

"We do not yet know how long patients on dialysis will live," the foundation says on its Web site. "We think that some dialysis patients may live as long as people without kidney failure." (HealthDay News)