Nephrologist-Initiated Peritoneal Dialysis Catheter Insertion Programme: A New Paradigm Shift

The success rate of peritoneal dialysis (PD) catheter insertion is known to vary among different operators and may be influenced by many factors such as patient and various situational factors. Traditionally, surgeons have inserted Tenckhoff catheters by mini-laparotomy or an open technique. However, with recent advances in endoscopic instrumentation and video capabilities, peritoneoscope Tenckhoff catheter insertion has become a viable approach in interventional nephrologist-initiated PD access programmes.

Nephrologist-initiated peritoneoscopic PD access programs have had a positive impact on PD penetration. The technique has been associated with a better primary success rate, superior catheter survival, less postoperative pain, shorter hospital stay, and shorter catheter break-in time compared with the conventional surgical technique. The role of interventional nephrologists in peritoneoscope Tenckhoff catheter placement is still perceived to be a relatively new advance, investigational by some, and many nephrologists and surgeons alike remain sceptical of the value of this recent option. Crucial questions often raised are how many procedures one needs to perform before being considered competent and who should be credentialed to perform the procedure or supervise trainees performing it. The evaluation of technical proficiency in a specific operation is difficult and complex. Cumulative summation (CUSUM) analysis is one option for tracking the success and failure of technical skill and examining trends over time. Key Messages: The author's facility has had good outcomes with a nephrologist-initiated peritoneoscopic PD access programme. Quality control of PD catheter insertion can be performed using CUSUM charting to monitor for primary catheter dysfunction, primary leak, and primary peritonitis.