Chronic peritoneal dialysis in the management of chronic renal failure.

Three patients with indwelling Tenckhoff catheters were maintained on peritoneal dialysis using an automated reverse-osmosis dialysis machine. All showed striking improvement. Peritonitis developed in two and necessitated catheter replacement in one. Strict aseptic technique in the dialysis procedure is emphasised, prevention of peritonitis being the key to success. Long-term peritoneal dialysis offers three advantages: it is a practical alternative to haemodialysis in selected cases, especially where trained personnel are few; it is simpler and cheaper.