Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis and renal transplantation: a ten-year experience in a single center

To assess whether a renal graft outcome is dependent on the modality of dialysis prior to transplantation and to assess risk of peritonitis and catheter-related problems posttransplantation.

Retrospect analysis of the outcome of a first cadaveric renal transplantation from hemodialysis (HD) and CAPD patients over a ten-year period.

Out of a total of 905 renal transplants over a ten-year period, 699 were first grafts; 500 of these (241 on CAPD, 259 on hemodialysis) were analyzed while the remaining (incomplete data, predialysis, pediatric) were assessed for graft and patient survival only.

Graft and patient survival cases were identical in the two groups (five-year graft survival: CAPD 67%, hemodialysis 66%; five-year patient survival: CAPD 88%, hemodialysis 87%). CAPD posttransplant was necessary in 37 patients, while 10 developed peritonitis mostly related to CAPD use and responded to appropriate therapy. Routine catheter removal posttransplant was undertaken between 8 and 12 weeks.

Excellent graft and patient survival is achieved independent of the modality of dialysis prior to transplantation. Peritoneal dialysis can be used postgrafting, but there is a risk of peritonitis, which can be successfully managed with antibiotics and catheter removal. Great care is needed in executing the dialysis and catheter care after transplantation.