Historical overview and current practice of peritoneal dialysis in Japan

Abstract

In the early days of peritoneal dialysis (PD) therapy, its limited duration and peritoneal deterioration were argued to be its disadvantages. Biocompatible solutions and hybrid therapy have been used in Japan to overcome these issues, which resulted in a decrease in encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis (EPS) incidence and an extension of PD continuation; these results have been disseminated worldwide. Peritoneal dialysis outcomes and practice patterns study (PDOPPS), a prospective observational study, has begun to confirm the outcomes of PD therapy, and sufficient evidence has been published, which has influenced the preparation of PD guidelines. Current thinking about PD emphasizes the need to maintain quality of life and life goals as care goals for patients and to provide high-quality care. However, we must conduct basic research on the prevention of peritoneal deterioration.