Abstract: SA-PO0425
Novel Dual-Lumen Peritoneal Dialysis Catheter Design Reduces Occlusion Risk
Session Information
- Home Dialysis: Science and Cases, from Lab to Living Room
November 08, 2025 | Location: Exhibit Hall, Convention Center
Abstract Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Category: Dialysis
- 802 Dialysis: Home Dialysis and Peritoneal Dialysis
Authors
- Wang, Joshua, The University of Texas Medical Branch John Sealy School of Medicine, Galveston, Texas, United States
- Iyer, Sudhanvan, The University of Texas Medical Branch John Sealy School of Medicine, Galveston, Texas, United States
- Nguyen, Philong, The University of Texas Medical Branch John Sealy School of Medicine, Galveston, Texas, United States
- Rastellini, Cristiana, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, United States
- Cicalese, Luca, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, United States
Background
Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is a preferred renal replacement therapy for many patients with end-stage renal disease due to its home-based application, improved quality of life, and fewer dietary restrictions. Catheter malfunction, commonly due to occlusion, remains a frequent complication, often necessitating two additional surgical procedures: removing the dysfunctional catheter and inserting a new one. This contributes to patient morbidity, increased healthcare utilization, and premature discontinuation of PD. We propose, and experimented, a novel dual-lumen PD catheter design aimed at improving catheter performance and minimizing occlusive events.
Methods
We developed and tested prototypes of a dual-lumen PD catheter using tubing with diameters ranging from 3.5 to 7mm. Comparative ex-vivo experiments were conducted to simulate intraperitoneal dialysate exchanges using both the new dual-lumen and traditional single-lumen catheters. The experimental setup evaluated fluid flow dynamics, pressure profiles, and resistance under both standard and partially occluded conditions. Partial occlusion was simulated by partially clamping and embedding the catheters in human omentum. Key outcome measures included flow rate consistency, negative pressure events, and suction force stability.
Results
The dual-lumen catheter demonstrated superior flow consistency, lower negative pressure variability, and improved resilience to partial occlusion compared to standard single-lumen PD catheters. Under all experimental conditions, the dual-lumen design maintained more effective fluid exchange. Differences were statistically significant (p<0.05). These findings suggest that the dual-lumen catheter may reduce malfunction rates and enhance the functional lifespan of PD access.
Conclusion
This study supports the potential of dual-lumen PD catheter to improve fluid dynamics and mitigate occlusion risk. If validated in clinical settings, this design may reduce the need for repeat procedures and extend the viability of PD for patients, improving outcomes.
1) Prototype Catheter
2) Experiment Design