Complications of Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to assess the diagnostic value of MR peritoneography in complications of continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Twenty consecutive patients treated with continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis who were clinically suspected of dialysis-related complications were prospectively studied with MR peritoneography. For MR peritoneography, 20 ml of gadodiamide was added to 2000-ml dialysate solution (1.36% glucose) that was instilled into the peritoneal cavity. MR peritoneography was performed with the peritoneal cavity filled (n = 12) and after complete drainage of the contrast material-dialysate mixture (n = 20) on a 1.5-T MR unit with a phased array coil. Imaging included axial T1-weighted fast low-angle shot (TR/TE, 174/4.2) with and without fat saturation and axial and coronal T2-weighted fat-saturated turbo spin-echo (3000/138) sequences. All studies were performed without IV contrast material. Images were reviewed for evidence of peritoneal leaks, hernias, loculated fluid collections, and adhesions. RESULTS: Abnormal findings were detected in 13 (65%) of 20 patients and included retroperitoneal leaks (n = 6), diaphragmatic leaks (n = 2), catheter exit-site leaks (n = 2), inguinal hernias (n = 2), and peritoneal adhesions (n = 1). CONCLUSION: MR peritoneography is useful for the evaluation of complications related to continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis, and it offers excellent tissue contrast and multiplanar imaging for assessment of complications.