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Peritoneal dialysis catheter
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A peritoneal dialysis catheter is a soft, flexible tube that doctors place into your belly (abdomen) to allow peritoneal dialysis — a treatment that cleans your blood when your kidneys stop working properly. The catheter stays in place for the long term so you can do dialysis at home.
Key facts
It is less common than hemodialysis (dialysis using a machine), but many people with kidney failure use peritoneal dialysis and have a catheter placed. It is a standard treatment option in many countries.
Peritoneal dialysis catheters are used by people of all ages who have kidney failure — including children, adults, and older adults — and who choose this type of dialysis or have other medical reasons that make it a good option for them.
The catheter itself is not diagnosed — it is placed as part of a treatment plan. But before placing a peritoneal dialysis catheter, doctors will confirm that you have kidney failure and decide if peritoneal dialysis is a good option for you. After placement, your care team will monitor the catheter for any problems using simple tests.
The placement procedure is usually done under local or general anaesthetic and takes about an hour. You will have a small incision (cut) in your belly. After that, you will need to wait 2–4 weeks for the area to heal before starting peritoneal dialysis. During that time, you will be taught how to care for the catheter and do your own dialysis at home.
The peritoneal dialysis catheter is part of the treatment for kidney failure. Once the catheter is in place, you will use it to do peritoneal dialysis — usually every day at home. The treatment involves filling your belly with a special fluid (dialysate) that draws waste out of your blood, then draining it out. You can do this by hand (continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis) or with a machine at night (automated peritoneal dialysis).
Once you settle into the routine, peritoneal dialysis can be done at home, giving you more flexibility than going to a dialysis centre. You will need to set aside time each day for exchanges (dialysis sessions) and for caring for your catheter. Many people continue to work, travel, and enjoy hobbies with proper planning.
Your kidney doctor or dietitian will give you a diet plan that is low in salt, phosphorus, and potassium. This helps control fluid balance and waste levels. Gentle exercise like walking is encouraged, but check with your team before starting anything vigorous. Stay hydrated as advised – too much or too little fluid can be a problem.
Living with kidney failure and doing daily dialysis can feel overwhelming. It is normal to feel anxious, frustrated, or sad at times. Talk to your healthcare team about these feelings – they can connect you with a counsellor or support group. If you ever feel like hurting yourself, please reach out for help immediately. You are not alone.
You cannot prevent the need for a peritoneal dialysis catheter if your kidneys fail, but you can prevent many problems with proper care. Good hygiene, following your care plan, and reporting changes early can stop infections and other complications.
Your healthcare team will recommend vaccines such as the flu shot and pneumonia vaccine to protect you from infections that could make kidney problems worse.
There is no special screening for the catheter itself, but your doctor will monitor your kidney function and overall health with regular blood tests and check-ups.
For most people, peritoneal dialysis works well for many years, allowing you to live a full and active life at home. With proper care, the catheter can stay in place and function without major problems. If complications do happen, they can often be treated quickly. Your healthcare team is there to help you every step of the way.
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Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: July 9, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.
If an infection occurs, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics, either pills or given through the dialysis fluid. Blockages may be treated by flushing the catheter or, rarely, by replacing it. Regular monitoring of your kidney function and the catheter site is part of ongoing care. For pain or discomfort, talk to your healthcare team about safe options.
The catheter is placed by a surgeon in a minor operation. In some cases, surgery may be needed later to replace a blocked or infected catheter, or to repair a hernia that develops from the increased pressure in your abdomen during dialysis.