Risk factors associated with complications of palliative drainage of ascites with tunneled peritoneal catheters.

BACKGROUND

Medically intractable ascites causes substantial distress in patients with palliative disease. Tunneled peritoneal catheters have been established as a feasible treatment option allowing patient-controlled paracentesis in a homecare setting. However, while a range of complications is associated with these drainages, risk factors for complications have not been identified so far.

OBJECTIVES

To explore potential risk factors associated with complications of tunneled peritoneal catheters.

DESIGN

Retrospective observational cohort study.

METHODS

Single-center cohort comprising 49 patients with palliative disease receiving 57 tunneled peritoneal catheters at a tertiary care hospital.

RESULTS

Catheter placement was successful in all patients and associated with low numbers of severe complications. Our data suggest a higher risk for severe late complications in patients with benign disease, with drainage replacement, and when performed by less experienced physicians.

CONCLUSION

Tunneled peritoneal catheters are an effective and safe option to treat symptomatic ascites in patients with end-stage palliative disease. The indication should be carefully considered in patients with benign disease and after removal or dislocation of a previous catheter.