Access to the peritoneal cavity for peritoneal dialysis can be gained:

A. Percutaneously.

B. Surgically.

C. Using laparoscopy

DISCUSSION: Chronic ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) catheters may be placed at the bedside with a straight Tenckhoff catheter under local anesthesia. They can be placed laparoscopically or by making a small perimedian incision and placing the catheter through the rectus muscle. All of the techniques can be performed using local anesthesia; however, use of the laparoscopy commonly calls for general anesthesia.