Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis connection systems

The history of the various connection systems proposed and tried during the first 15 years of clinical application of continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) is reviewed. In order to understand the reasons for their success or lack of success, the main technical and operating characteristics regarding their efficacy in preventing peritonitis are examined in detail, together with a range of other pros and cons (i.e., reliability, simplicity, ease of use, cost, aesthetical aspects). The result is an updated state-of-the-art review in the field of CAPD connectology, with a look at future trends.