Implantation of peritoneal catheters by laparotomy: nephrologists obtained similar results to general surgeons.

Purpose: To analyze the complications and costs of minilaparotomies performed by a nephrologist (group A) compared with conventional laparotomies performed by a surgeon (group B) for peritoneal catheter implantation.

Setting: Two university hospitals (Santa Sofia and Caldas) in Manizales, Caldas, Colombia.

Methods: The study included stage 5 chronic kidney disease patients, with indication of renal replacement therapy, who were candidates for peritoneal dialysis and gave informed consent for a peritoneal catheter implant.