Challenges and possible solutions to peritoneal dialysis use in Nigeria

INTRODUCTION: Peritoneal dialysis is a form of renal replacement therapy that is both effective and relatively affordable. Peritoneal dialysis (PD) was first used in Nigeria as a treatment option for renal failure. Its use was first reported in Nigeria in 1969 and became more widespread in the 80s and 90s. Haemodialysis, which is capital intensive to set up and requires infrastructures and facilities such as electricity, intense water consumption and buildings, seems to have upstaged peritoneal dialysis both in demand and supply. METHODS: This cross-sectional study is a convenient survey of nephrologists, renal technicians and nurses in Nigeria. We used a structured, self-administered questionnaire on a cross-section of members and associate members attending a national nephrology association meeting. RESULTS: There were 68(54.4%) doctors, 43(27.2%) nurses, and 14(11.2%) renal technicians, all from medical institutions with renal treatment programs who participated in the study. The most common problems encountered with PD use are financial constraints (51.7%), inadequate fluid supply (50%), frequent line blockage (22.4%) and frequent infections (17.2%). Reasons attributed to the stoppage of PD in the centres included lack of PD fluids (50.8%), unavailability of PD catheters (22.8%), lack of expert personnel to train (15.8%). CONCLUSION: Main challenges to peritoneal dialysis use in Nigeria include limited experience and training and availability and cost of consumables. Effort to overcome the factors militating against its use should be positively pursued so that peritoneal dialysis will be re-integrated into the mainstream of renal replacement therapy once more.