Peritoneaalisvetäjiä

Peritoneaalisvetäjiä, often translated as peritoneal dialysis catheters, are medical devices used in peritoneal dialysis (PD), a treatment for kidney failure. These catheters are surgically implanted into the abdomen, passing through the abdominal wall to reach the peritoneal cavity. The peritoneal cavity is the space within the abdomen that surrounds the organs.

The primary function of a peritoneaalisvetäjä is to serve as a conduit for the sterile dialysis fluid, also known as dialysate, to enter and exit the peritoneal cavity. During a PD session, dialysate is infused through the catheter. The peritoneum, a membrane lining the abdominal cavity, acts as a natural filter. Waste products and excess fluid from the blood are drawn into the dialysate across the peritoneal membrane. After a prescribed dwell time, the used dialysate, now containing waste products, is drained out of the abdomen through the same catheter.

Peritoneaalisvetäjiä are typically made of silicone or polyurethane and are designed for long-term use. They have a cuff or cuffs that are embedded in the abdominal wall tissues. These cuffs help to anchor the catheter in place and prevent infection by promoting tissue growth around them, creating a barrier. The external portion of the catheter has connectors that allow for attachment to dialysis bags containing fresh dialysate and drainage bags for used dialysate. Proper care and handling of the catheter exit site are crucial to prevent infections.