Table 1.
The Advantages and Disadvantages Associated with Incremental Peritoneal Dialysis Prescriptive Strategies.
| Advantages | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Gradual transition to full dose PD | Not ideal for patients with significant volume overload needing large ultrafiltration volumes |
| Better preservation of RKF | Increased risk of under-dialysis if RKF declines and no changes are made with prescription |
| Reduced risk of mechanical complications | Need for frequent evaluation of prescription |
| Improved patient adherence and quality of life | Risk of therapeutic inertia on the part of patients |
| Reduced health care cost and environmental burden | Need for closer clinical monitoring and more regular follow-up |
| Reduced peritoneal membrane and systemic glucose exposure | Not ideal for acute start peritoneal dialysis |
Source: Adapted with modification from Cheetham et al. 5
PD = peritoneal dialysis; RKF = residual kidney function.