Peritoneal dialysis in children. Review of 8 years' experience

Insights

Peritoneal dialysis is an effective treatment for acute renal failure in children. While peritoneal infection is a common complication, especially in younger children, it is generally treatable.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Nephrology
  • Critical Care Medicine

Background:

  • Acute renal failure (ARF) in children presents significant management challenges.
  • Peritoneal dialysis (PD) offers a therapeutic option for pediatric ARF.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the efficacy and safety of peritoneal dialysis in pediatric patients with acute renal failure.
  • To identify common complications and outcomes associated with PD in this population.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of 59 PD sessions in 44 children (2 days to 17 years) from 1968-1975.
  • Detailed review of complications, treatment strategies, and patient outcomes.

Main Results:

  • Peritoneal infection was the most frequent complication (68% in <2 years, 30% in older children), typically responsive to treatment.
  • Intramuscular and intraperitoneal gentamicin therapy was utilized.
  • Mortality occurred in 2 patients due to intraperitoneal hemorrhage; one patient had intestinal perforation.

Conclusions:

  • Peritoneal dialysis is a viable and safe method for managing pediatric ARF when performed in specialized centers.
  • Experienced centers can effectively manage complex metabolic issues and underlying renal diseases during PD treatment.

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