Catheter Repositioning

[Sillynan]

Hi everyone.

I had my catheter inserted on 23rd March. Everything was going well with weekly flush outs, until last Thursday. Only a third of the fluid came out. An X-Ray showed the catheter has moved. I have to go for another X-Ray this week, and if it hasn't moved back, it will have to be repositioned. This will (as you all know) involve another operation. I was supposed to start dialysis next week, but it will be delayed if repositioning is required. I have asked how long, and was told a wait of at least a month for the operation, then a further month of weekly flushes until dialysis starts. So this would be over 2 months delay. I am concerned that this will compromise my remaining kidney function. I have stated clearly that I will pay to have the catheter repositioned quickly, but the NHS sister seems very reluctant to even find out anything for me.

Advice please form this lovely community, and has anyone ever paid to have a catheter repositioned?

[wagolynn]

I know of patients that have dialysed (PD) two days after the catheter was fitted. I can only assume your need for dialysis is not urgent.

Delayed dialysis is unlikely to affect your kidneys. We dialyse to remove the waste products healthy kidneys would normally remove, it is not a treatment for our kidneys.

If your renal team are happy with the delay, don't worry about it, treat as one of the many frustrations you will meet along the way.

I hope that helps.

[Dotty]

Hi,

When I had mine repositioned it was used the next day, albeit with a reduced amount of fluid and it worked well.

Good luck

Dotty x