Mechanical Complications of Peritoneal Dialysis

Abstract

Introduction: The key to a successful chronic peritoneal dialysis is a permanent and safe access to the peritoneal cavity. The mechanical complications of peritoneal dialysis (MCPD) are a major cause of the failure of the technique. The aim of the study was to define the prevalence of peritoneal dialysis (PD) mechanical catheter complications, to determine the time and the factors associated with their occurring. Materials and Methods: A retrospective study was conducted between January 2009 and January 2014 at the nephrology, dialysis and renal transplants department of Ibn Sina university hospital in Rabat. We included all patients who were on peritoneal dialysis and presented mechanical complications. These mechanical catheter complications are represented by catheter migration or obstruction, inguinal or umbilical hernias, early and late peritoneal dialysate leakage, subcutaneous cuff extrusion and hemoperitoneum. Results: MCPD were noted in 23 of the 62 patients (37% of cases). Onset time of complications was 24.8 ± 18.9 months [3 - 60 months]. Among these complications, we noted a catheter migration (65.2%), postoperative hematoma (21.7%), cracking or perforation of catheter (17.4%), epiploic aspiration (17.4%), sleeve externalization (17.4%), catheter obstruction (13%), hemoperitoneum (13%), hernia (22%; 13% umbilical and 8.7% inguinal), early dialysate leakage (13%), and pleuroperitoneal leakage (8.7%). The average age of our patients was 54.9 ± 15.5 years [21 - 81 years old], with a male predominance and a sex ratio of 2.28. The average body mass index (BMI) was 25.4 kg/m2. Diabetic patients represent 48.7% of our series. In our study, MCPD represent 13% of causes of transfer to hemodialysis (HD). Conclusion: Prevention of MCPD remains crucial. It is based on good patient education on hygiene and handling errors but also periodic retraining of patients and caregivers.