Extrusion of both Superficial and Deep Cuffs of a Functional Double-Cuff Peritoneal Dialysis Catheter after Significant Weight Loss

Abstract

Extrusion of the superficial cuff of a peritoneal dialysis (PD) catheter is an uncommon complication that may be associated with infection or malfunction. However, extrusion of both the superficial and deep cuffs of a double-cuff catheter is rare and uniformly associated with failure and peritonitis. We report a case of a presternal-type PD double-cuff catheter with extrusion of both cuffs through an abdominal exit site after 6 years of use that has remained functional, which has not been previously reported. In this case, the patient had achieved a 60-kg weight loss resulting in retraction of the subcutaneous tissue around both cuffs, while the catheter was held in place by the titanium connector between the presternal extension tubing and the inner, coiled catheter. In such special circumstances, extrusion of both cuffs may not necessitate urgent catheter removal. A review of the literature revealed previous cases of superficial cuff extrusions with catheters remaining functional but not with deep cuff extrusion.