Advantages of continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis to the diabetic with renal failure

Among the diabetic patients we have treated with dialysis blood pressure and blood sugar control have been poor and vascular disease progressive. Intermittent peritoneal dialysis did not improve these problems compared with haemodialysis. Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis was undertaken in three patients as a last resort and electively in another two patients. Insulin was given by the intraperitoneal route and none was used systemically. Self-care was taught from the first using the spouse if visual problems were present. Serum creatinine levels fell and haemoglobin levels rose. Blood pressure was controlled without diet or drugs. Blood sugar levels were controlled without symptomatic hypoglycaemia or rebound hyperglycaemia. The procedure had a demoralising effect on helper spouses, and self-care had to be achieved even with severe visual problems. The advantages of continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis to the diabetic with renal failure are greatly improved control of blood pressure and blood sugar.