Table of Contents
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
