Peritoneal Dialysis Access in Southeast Michigan

Patients with end stage kidney failure require dialysis to replace the function of the kidneys. Your nephrologist (kidney specialist) will help you decide whether hemodialysis (filtering blood with access through shunt, fistula, or permcath IV) or peritoneal dialysis (fluid exchanges into and out of the abdominal cavity through a catheter) is best for you. A peritoneal dialysis catheter (Tenckhoff catheter) is placed surgically into the abdomen. 

Interesting fact: While standardized, life-saving peritoneal dialysis was not widely available until the 1960s, World War II era experiments with the technique saved the lives of some soldiers with kidney failure from crush injuries.

Frequently Asked Questions

A Tenckhoff catheter is a hallow plastic tube that is surgically inserted into the abdomen and capped off. Once placed, it is intermittently connected to a peritoneal dialysis machine to cycle dialysate fluid into and out of the body to replace the function of the kidneys.
Placement requires a general anesthetic in an operating room. Surgery is usually done as an outpatient.
  • All surgery carries some risk of bleeding. Let us know if you have a clotting disorder or if you take blood thinners.
  • Infection of the surgical wound is another rare complication. Let us know if you have any current or recent infections.
  • Delayed infection of the Tenckhoff catheter (catheter associated peritonitis) is common and can be caused by a breach of sterility during dialysis. Strict adherence to sterile technique is particularly important. Your dialysis nurse will teach you proper catheter care.
  • Your dialysis team and nephrologist will address symptoms and make the diagnosis.
  • Antibiotics will be prescribed by your nephrologist.
  • For some serious infections, treatment requires removal of the catheter.
  • If your nephrologist determines that your catheter should be removed, he or she will contact us to arrange for minor surgery to do this.
  • Temporary conversion to hemodialysis may be necessary.

Schedule Your Consultation in Southeast Michigan

When it comes to managing end-stage kidney failure, peritoneal dialysis offers a vital option for many patients. At SEM Surgical, we provide expert placement of peritoneal dialysis catheters, ensuring you receive the highest standard of care. To schedule your consultation, call us at (248) 985-8060 today.