Clinical outcome of 50 patients started on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis in a Swedish centre

The outcome of the first 50 patients started on Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD) in one centre is reported. The total treatment time was 779 months. Ten patients died while on CAPD. Thirteen patients were transplanted, 4 of whom returned to CAPD after graft failure, 7 were transferred to other forms of dialysis and one to another centre. Twenty-three patients remained on the method. Good control of the symptoms and biochemical parameters of uremia was achieved. The patients were content with a high degree of well-being and freedom from dietary and fluid restrictions. The costs were found to be low. Peritonitis was a major complication, accounting for one death and four transfers to hemodialysis. The total incidence was one episode per every sixth patient month. CAPD represents an important contribution to the treatment of chronic renal failure. Nevertheless peritonitis remains a serious problem and the long-term metabolic effects of CAPD are unknown.