Overview
Peritoneal dialysis was first used for the management of end-stage renal disease in 1959.
In 1968, Henry Tenckhoff developed the indwelling peritoneal catheter, which was placed via an open surgical technique.
Subsequently, percutaneous and laparoscopic techniques for placement have been utilized.
Peritoneal dialysis has several advantages over hemodialysis including quality of life due to its ability to provide better patient mobility and independence, the simplicity of use, as well as the clinical advantages of maintaining residual renal function and lower mortality in the first years after starting peritoneal dialysis. A disadvantage of peritoneal dialysis is the poor blood pressure control due to fluid overload as well as the risk of peritonitis.
An image depicting peritoneal dialysis catheter insertion can be seen below.
Peritoneal dialysis catheter showing the double cuff catheter.