Catheter-related complications of continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the effectiveness of continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) with particular reference to morbidity.

DESIGN

Open study.

SETTING

Two city general hospitals.

SUBJECTS

104 Adults and 11 children with end stage renal failure.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

Morbidity.

RESULTS

There were 29 complications (25%), the most common being obstruction of the tube (n = 8, 7%), and migration of the tube (n = 7, 6%). Others were peritonitis (n = 5), haemorrhage (n = 4), infection at the exit site (n = 3), and leakage of fluid (n = 2). All were readily treatable.

CONCLUSIONS

Fixing the catheter in two places may prevent its migration. The complication rate of CAPD is acceptable, and in children with end stage renal failure it is a suitable alternative to haemodialysis while they are waiting for renal transplantation.