Insertion of peritoneal dialysis catheters: the lateral approach

Potential complications of peritoneal dialysis catheters include ventral herniation, dialysate leakage, and catheter dysfunction. Using local anesthesia and a paramedian, muscle-splitting approach, we have significantly reduced the morbidity of the procedure. Security of fascial closure and identification of the peritoneum, even in obese patients, has been facilitated through this technique.