Imaging of the peritoneal cavity in CAPD

Abstract

The aim of our study was the use of the optimal imaging of the peritoneal cavity (PC) for continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) related problems. Ultrasonography (USG), direct abdominal radiography (DAR), peritoneoscintigraphy (PSG), and standard peritoneo-computed tomography (PCT) with reconstruction (R-PCT) were performed in 25 patients on CAPD from three to 44 months. Studies were done at the beginning of CAPD (1-3 months) as well as in the noncomplicated and complicated course of CAPD. Group I comprised 17 patients in whom 77 PC images were taken in the non complicated course of CAPD. Group II comprised 15 patients in whom 65 images were taken during or after complications. For USG and DAR we used standard equipment, PSG was done with sulfur colloid labeled with technetium 99m (Tc 99m), PCT, and R-PCT were done with Omnipaque and Somatom HiQ Siemens unit. In PCT, two- and three-dimensional reconstruction were done by our own computer program. USG was recommended for imaging of tunnel infections, exit-site infection (ESI), and adhesion. PSG was useful in almost all observed complications of CAPD except thickening of the peritoneal membrane (PM). Standard PCT with R-PCT was more useful than PCT because of a more legible image of the peritoneal cavity, which gives the possibility of monitoring fluid distribution and measuring of intraperitoneal fluid volume.