title: Structural defects in chronic peritoneal dialysis catheters contributing to peritonitis.
abstract: Recurrent peritonitis remains a critical problem in patients treated with continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis. 3 case histories are presented documenting an association between catheter defects and peritonitis. Illustrative defects are shown. Improved awareness of the hazard and better catheter design may reduce the risks of peritonitis.
mesh_terms: D000151:Acinetobacter Infections / Q000209:etiology; D002404:Catheterization / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000295:instrumentation; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010530:Peritoneal Dialysis / Q000009:adverse effects*; D010531:Peritoneal Dialysis, Continuous Ambulatory / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000295:instrumentation; D010538:Peritonitis / Q000209:etiology*; D013203:Staphylococcal Infections / Q000209:etiology; D013211:Staphylococcus aureus