Long-Term Peritoneal Indwelling Catheters for Malignant Ascites: A Retrospective Case Series of PleurX and Peritoneal Port.

Objectives

To compare outcomes of PleurX and peritoneal port for malignant ascites.

Design

Retrospective review of medical records was conducted. Setting/Subjects: Subjects were consecutive patients receiving PleurX or peritoneal port for malignant ascites in a center in Sydney, Australia. Measurements: Demographic data, complication rates, hospitalization rates, and survival were measured.

Results

Sixteen cases were analyzed: 6 had peritoneal port (170 catheter days) and 10 had PleurX (477 catheter days). Complication rates were low with both drainage systems. Cellulitis rate was 33% (1.2 events/100 catheter days) for peritoneal port and 10% (0.2 events/100 catheter days) for PleurX. Hospital admission days were 27 days/100 catheter days for peritoneal port and 5.2 days/100 catheter days for PleurX.

Conclusions

Both PleurX and peritoneal port seem feasible options in draining malignant ascites. Further research is needed to ascertain whether there are true differences in cellulitis/admission rates. Patient quality of life, experience, and preference should be included in future studies.