Peritoneal Catheter Implantation for CAPO

Implantation of the peritoneal catheter is the important first step in beginning CAPD. In this paper the major complications of catheter implantation are discussed and ways to reduce these complications are identified. The insertion of the catheter through the rectus sheath as described by Helfrich is likely to reduce the incidence of some of these complications. This technique is described. To discuss the principles of a good peritoneal catheter implantation for CAPD, it is of interest to identify the major problems associated with catheter implantation. These complications are 1) leakage, 2) catheter migration, 3) obstruction, 4) bleeding, 5) reflex ileus, 6) visceral perforation, 7) infection, and 8) pericatheter hernias (1). The incidence of the major complications of catheter implantation are seen in Table 1.