Factors influencing peritoneal catheter survival in continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis.

The success of continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) is to a great extent determined by the survival of the peritoneal catheter. The aim of this study was to identify technical factors which influence CAPD catheter survival. A total of 453 CAPD catheters inserted into 310 patients over an 8-year period were analysed. Access to the peritoneum was gained either by an open surgical technique (n = 290) or by a closed technique using a trocar and introducer (n = 163). Data relating to a number of potentially significant risk/benefit factors were analysed using multiple regression analysis (proportional hazards method of Cox). Three factors were found to be independently associated with improved catheter survival. They were: using an open surgical insertion technique, performing a partial omentectomy at the time of catheter insertion and the procedure being performed by a consultant.