Improved results with a paramedian technique for the insertion of peritoneal dialysis catheters.

Three hundred and twenty-three permanent peritoneal dialysis catheters were inserted in 233 patients by two different methods (midline and paramedian). The paramedian technique resulted in a reduction in the incidence of dialysate leak, incisional hernia and extrusion of the cuff. These results have led to the abandonment of the midline insertion and the exclusive use of the paramedian technique for permanent dialysis catheter insertion at our institution.