Twardowski Zj

Swan Neck Peritoneal Dialysis Catheters

One of the most important components of the peritoneal dialysis system is a permanent and trouble-free access to the peritoneal cavity. Today, despite all the advancements in catheter technology, the Tenckhoff catheter is still the most widely used catheter [1]. Catheter-related complications such as catheter-tip migration, dialysis solution leak, and exit-site infection are frequently encountered with the use of Tenckhoff’s catheter, mainly due to improper insertion technique. Overall one-year survival of the peritoneal catheter is 60%–70% [1]. Catheter exit-site and tunnel infections are frequent in patients on CAPD and result in increased morbidity, prolonged antibiotic therapy, recurrent peritonitis, and catheter failure. According to the National CAPD Registry, 12.41% of catheters are removed because of exit-site or tunnel infection [1]. No accurate data arc available on the morbidity related to catheter exit-site infection, but according to our experience, infected exit sites require antibiotic treatment for 2.5% of the catheter life [2].

Quality in peritoneal dialysis: achieving improving outcomes

The goal of this chapter is to discuss the characteristics of systems (structure) and activities (process) within a peritoneal dialysis (PD) program which contribute to optimal outcomes (quality) for peritoneal dialysis patients.

Quality systems in the dialysis center: Peritoneal dialysis

The goal of this chapter is to discuss the characteristics of systems (structure) and activities (process) within a peritoneal dialysis program which contribute to optimal outcomes (quality) for peritoneal dialysis patients.