Rapid onset of acute peritoneal dialysis (PD) in the infant population is, in part, dependent upon equipment availability. From March 1991 until June 1995, over 200 children at the University of Michigan have undergone dialysis for acute renal failure. Of these children, 29 infants (mean +/- SEM)(age 4.5 +/- 1.3 months; weight 4.8 +/- 0.5 kg) have had placement of an acute 5 French Cook PD catheter for dialysis. Complications including inadequate inflow in one case, bleeding in one case, and accidental removal in one case were infrequent. Duration of the placed catheters was 9.9 +/- 2.7 days, without the problems associated with chronic placement of a stiff catheter. Onset of dialysis occurred within minutes due to rapid access. We conclude that the placement of a 5 French Cook acute PD catheter for acute PD in the infant population is easily performed with minimal risk. Moreover, this allows for more rapid onset of PD when conditions mandate this need.

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