Tenckhoff catheter and peritoneal dialysis

A Tenckhoff catheter is a catheter placed through the abdominal wall that provides access to the peritoneum. It is used to perform peritoneal dialysis.

Examining a Tenckhoff catheter

Look

• General inspection
  • Patient well/unwell
  • In pain
• Abdomen
  • Signs of acute abdomen/peritonitis
  • Scars
• Tenckhoff catheter
  • Patency
  • Signs of inflammation

Feel

• Abdomen
  • Brief abdominal exam to determine if any signs of peritonitis or areas of tenderness
• Skin around catheter
  • Temperature
  • Swelling

Viva questions about peritoneal dialysis

What are the different types?

• Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis: patient replaces peritoneal dialysate manually with fluid bags 3-5 times daily (each exchange takes 30-40 minutes)
• Automated peritoneal dialysis: machine automatically replaces peritoneal dialysate overnight (over 8-10 hours)

What are the contraindications?

• Peritoneal adhesions
• Stoma
• Hernias
• Inflammatory bowel disease

What are the complications?

• Peritonitis
• Infection around catheter site
• Constipation
• Catheter malposition
• Fluid leaks
• Hernias
• Encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis
• Weight gain

What are the advantages?

• Can be done at home
• Dialysis fluid can be delivered to patient’s home
• Easier to travel/go on holiday
• Fewer restrictions on diet and fluid intake