Peritoneal Dialysis Catheters

With more than a decade of experience, Dr. Luciano Fiszer, MD and the caring staff at Elite Surgical Miami are dedicated to improving the quality of life that our patients enjoy. We embrace the use of technology that allows us to care for our clients in a minimally invasive way, which is why we’re pleased to offer peritoneal dialysis catheters.
We know the struggles that patients face when they’re dealing with dialysis. You may have to go out of your way and visit a dialysis center several times a week. Your time could be better spent, and when you turn to us for your new peritoneal dialysis catheter, you can get your freedom and independence back.

Anyone who is dealing with renal problems or kidney failure is a candidate for a peritoneal dialysis catheter. When the human body struggles to get rid of waste, dialysis is often recommended. Implanting the catheter surgically is one option that can address this health problem without the need to visit a dialysis center.

About Peritoneal Dialysis Catheters
Peritoneal dialysis catheters were first used for patients with renal disease in 1959. Less than ten years later, in 1968, Henry Tenckhoff developed a catheter that could be implanted surgically. It offered several advantages over traditional catheters, so it quickly became a preferred method by some physicians.

Benefits of Peritoneal Dialysis Catheters
There are several distinct advantages to using a peritoneal dialysis catheter. First and foremost, they’re simpler to use. Once the catheter has been implanted, which can be done in a minimally invasive fashion, the patient can enjoy more mobility and enhanced independence. Clinically, patients with a peritoneal dialysis catheter experience better renal functioning.

Disadvantages
An increased risk of peritonitis is a chief disadvantage of a peritoneal dialysis catheter. Peritonitis occurs when the layer of tissue in the abdomen, which is between the chest and pelvis, becomes inflamed. Patients who are undergoing dialysis can take several precautions to prevent peritonitis. Proper hygiene is essential, before, during, and after dialysis.

Peritonitis Signs
If you’re concerned about peritonitis, there are several things to bear in mind. You may notice belly pain, especially in the area where you have your catheter, or you may see that your dialysis fluid is milky or has white flecks inside. Because peritonitis is a bacterial infection, you may notice that you have a fever. The good news is that by thoroughly washing your hands and the area around the catheter, you can address the root causes and minimize the potential of an infection.

Catheter Placement
Physicians use two main methods to insert the catheter. It can be done laparoscopically, with the aid of a camera, or it can be done in a traditional surgical method.

Laparoscopic Surgery
This procedure is minimally invasive and can usually be completed in an hour. Your physician will use a camera during the surgery to minimize any damage. After surgery, the catheter will be ready for use the next day.

Preparing for Surgery
If you feel that a peritoneal dialysis catheter is right for you, there are several things you should do to prepare for surgery. The night before your surgery, you should refrain from eating or drinking anything after midnight. Make sure to follow all of your doctor’s orders and instructions and it’s a good idea to have a friend or family member come with you the day of the procedure.

Easy Dialysis
After the peritoneal dialysis catheter has been surgically inserted, dialysis is easy. It can be performed either at night or during the day. You won’t have to visit a dialysis center on a weekly basis because the catheter does the work for you.

Using a Cycler
During the evening, you can use a machine that is called a “cycler.” The cycler is completely portable and can be taken on an airplane. Supplies are easy to procure, and they can be shipped to nearly destination.

If you’re living with kidney disease or renal problems, you may want to consider the benefits of a peritoneal dialysis catheter. They can be easily implanted, and you can free up some of your time. Additionally, you won’t need to feel like you’re a slave to a dialysis machine. Before you decide whether the catheter is your best option, you may want to schedule an appointment with the caring staff at Elite Surgical Miami. We’ve been helping our clients enjoy a better quality of life for more than a decade.

Dr. Luciano Fiszer, MD is a board-certified professional who takes pride in helping his clients. He embraces the use of technology that allows him to conduct minimally invasive surgeries, and implanting a peritoneal dialysis catheter is an easy procedure that can be completed in the comforts of his office. To schedule your consultation, feel free to reach out at your convenience. The staff would be happy to answer any questions that you may have about the procedure.

Request An Appointment

Call Elite Surgical Miami at 786-310-2283 for a consultation
Find out how you can start your journey to a healthier life.