Drainage failure because of spontaneous fracture of the peritoneal dialysis catheter

A material stress test study on occurrence of leakage and material failure of peritoneal dialysis (PD) catheters

Peritonitis is a common complication of peritoneal dialysis (PD). Our root cause analysis allowed to attribute some cases to leakage of the PD catheter. Accordingly, a clinically based stress test study on potential material damage issues of PD catheters was performed, focusing on material damage caused by cleaning, de- and attachment procedures during dialysate changes and on the individual storage methods of PD catheters between dialysate changes. PD catheters were exposed to both chemical stress by repeating dialysate-flow and physical stress simulating de- and connecting, fixation, pressure, flexing, folding etc.—simulating standard clinical daily routine of 8–10 years PD catheter usage. Potentially by normal usage caused damages should be then detected by intraluminal pressure, light- and electron microscopy. The multi-step visual control showed no obvious damages on PD catheters nor any leakage or barrier indulgence. Our tests simulating daily routine usage of PD catheters for several years could not detect any material defects under chemical or physical stress. Hence, we presume that most PD catheter damages, as identified cause for peritonitis in some of our patients, may be due to accidental, unnoticed external damage (e.g. through scissors, while changing dressings) or neglecting PD catheter handling specifications.

Omental wrap: Radiographic diagnosis confirmed surgically - Report of two cases in Grenada

Omental wrapping is a common cause of peritoneal catheter malfunction. This diagnosis should be confirmed by radiography before proceeding with surgical omentectomy. We report two cases of peritoneal dialysis (PD) catheter outflow obstruction from our developing PD program in Grenada, in which contrast studies accurately diagnosed omental wrap, allowing for prompt surgical correction. In both cases, the contrast study indicated the presence of omental wrapping, confirmed at time of surgical correction. Radiographic features of omental wrap are distinctive, which allows for reliable differentiation from other causes of obstruction. Radiographic contrast study reliably diagnoses the cause of peritoneal catheter obstruction, permitting prompt diagnosis and treatment. This is vital for regions with limited access to haemodialysis.

Spontaneous Fracture in Intramural and Intra-Abdominal Segments of Peritoneal Dialysis Catheters Presenting as Outflow Failure

We herewith report 2 unusual cases of spontaneous peritoneal dialysis (PD) catheter fracture in intramural and intra-abdominal segments, respectively, in PD patients with long vintage. There were no associated infections or mechanical trauma. The patients presented with PD catheter outflow failure. Both the patients had their catheter replaced and resumed PD without any further issues. Probable causes and comparison with the reported cases are discussed.

Diagnostic imaging observations in cats treated with the subcutaneous ureteral bypass system

OBJECTIVES

To describe pre- and post-operative ultrasonographic and fluoroscopic findings, including any abnormalities, in cats treated for ureteral obstruction with a subcutaneous ureteral bypass system.

METHODS

Retrospective review of imaging findings in cats with ureteral obstruction that had surgery to place the first version of the bypass system and at least one follow-up ultrasound or fluoroscopic study. Pre- and post-operative renal pelvic diameter on ultrasound, fluoroscopic appearance of the bypass system and any related abnormality were recorded.

RESULTS

Eighty-one cats were included (47 unilateral, 34 bilateral bypass systems). Median preoperative renal pelvic diameter was 9 mm (range 3 to 28 mm) and median renal pelvic diameter at the first postoperative ultrasound was 3 mm (range 2 to 23 mm). The median number of postoperative imaging studies was two (range 1 to 8) and the median follow-up period after surgery was 205 days (range 1 to 1378 days). Bypass system abnormalities were identified postoperatively in 43 (53%) cats, including nephrostomy or cystostomy catheter blockage due to an undetermined cause or kinking of the catheter, nephrostomy or cystostomy catheter leakage, non-obstructive kinking of the catheter and loose nephrostomy pig-tail loop. Many abnormalities required repeat surgery, but others were managed conservatively. Fifty-four percent of obstructed ureters became patent after bypass placement, although the majority remained slightly dilated or had irregular margins compatible with chronic inflammation.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Bypass abnormalities, mainly tube blockage, occurred frequently in cats treated for ureteral obstruction. Ultrasonography and fluoroscopy were useful for postoperative examination, including documenting renewed ureteral patency and investigation of suspected abnormalities.