[Why and how to promote peritoneal dialysis?]

Abstract

The prevalence of peritoneal dialysis in France remains one of the lowest in Europe in spite of official recommendations in 2008. Progress in peritoneal catheter placement and a good knowledge of the management of catheter complications are essential. A more frequent use of biocompatible solutions should achieve a better preservation of the peritoneal membrane. Such physiological peritoneal fluids seem to decrease morbidity and mortality. Best peritoneal dialysis indications are mainly young patients waiting for a kidney transplantation, old patients without malnutrition and patients with cardiac insufficiency. Objective and complete information dedicated to both peritoneal dialysis and hemodialysis is necessary, even for patients seen in emergency or unplanned or late referral patients. A pre-end-stage renal disease education program has to be mandatory. Non-medical obstacles, mainly financial, are still common so that economic incitations are necessary for the development of peritoneal dialysis. A university formation of nephrologists is now available.