Experimental evaluation of local reactions due to Dacron used in Tenckhoff catheters for peritoneal dialysis

Inbred male Wistar rats were implanted subcutaneously with samples of Dacron and Silastic tubing as used in Tenckhoff catheters for peritoneal dialysis, to evaluate their capacity to evoke toxic reactions. Implants of Dacron induced a modest to severe granulomatous reaction with giant cell formation persisting for at least 30 days. Thereafter, this reaction subsided, with Dacron fibers being surrounded by fibrous sheaths. Silastic tubing induced a mild local reaction that regressed by day 10. Predictably, adverse reactions, including erosions, abscesses, and prolonged inflammatory changes noted in clinical patients implanted with Tenckhoff catheters may be attributable to misplacements of the catheters, recurrent infections, or toxic materials from extraneous sources, but not the materials used.