Tenckhoff Catheter Insertion by Nephrologists: Open Dissection Technique

Abstract

Background

The practice of Tenckhoff catheter insertion by nephrologists remains uncommon in most countries.

Methods

We report our single-center experience of Tenckhoff catheter insertion by nephrologists using the open dissection surgical technique in a dedicated ward-based procedure room.

Results

Between November 2005 and September 2008, 250 peritoneal catheters were inserted by 6 nephrologists with varying levels of experience. Surgical dissection followed by exposure of the peritoneum under direct vision was performed under local anesthesia. Primary catheter failure, as defined by catheters that failed to function within 1 month after insertion, occurred in 2.8% of cases. Within 1 month of catheter insertion, 20 patients developed infectious complications: 9 (3.6%) peritonitis, and 11 (4.4%) exit-site infections; none of these complications led to catheter removal. Mean technique survival for the catheters was 41.2 months (95% confidence interval: 39.5 months to 42.9 months). Catheter survival rates at 1 and 2 years were 92.7% and 87.2% respectively.

Conclusions

We reported an encouraging outcome for Tenckhoff catheters inserted by nephrologists in an open surgical manner, with a 2-year catheter survival of 87.2% and a good safety profile.