Long-term intraperitoneal access with description of a new access catheter.

Background And Objectives: Intraperitoneal chemotherapy can be administered as a single dose associated with hyperthermia (HIPEC) or in successive doses under normothermic conditions, such as early postoperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy (EPIC) or normothermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (NIPEC or NIPEC-LT). Repetitive administration of intraperitoneal chemotherapy over a prolonged period may be associated with catheter-related complications, which are the primary cause of treatment interruption. This study aims to introduce and evaluate an innovative catheter system designed to mitigate these issues.

Methods: Using a porcine experimental model, we tested a new catheter for long-term intraperitoneal access. Sixteen animals underwent catheter implantation followed by normothermic recirculation of peritoneal dialysis solution. Catheter functionality and any complications were monitored throughout successive treatment cycles.

Results: The new catheter system demonstrated optimal recirculation and maintained its functionality throughout successive treatments, without complications. Catheter replacement with a guidewire was successful, ensuring continued efficacy.

Conclusions: The innovative catheter system shows promise in reducing complications and improving compliance in successive intraperitoneal chemotherapy doses, justifying further clinical trials to confirm its efficacy in patients.