A Safe Peritoneal Access Device for Repeated Peritoneal Dialysis

A peritoneal replacement prosthesis maintains easy access to the peritoneal cavity for repeated peritoneal dialyses. The prosthesis has been inserted following 218 peritoneal dialyses and left in place for 1,441 patient days in 32 patients. Only three episodes of peritonitis have occurred. Use of this prosthesis has simplified catheter replacement, reduced some of the complications of peritoneal dialysis, and increased acceptability of intermittent peritoneal dialysis to the patient. It has proved useful in any patient undergoing repeated peritoneal dialyses whether the procedure is performed at frequent or over prolonged intervals.