Introduction

Heart failure is a disease associated with poor quality of life. Peritoneal dialysis can be an alternative in treatment of these patients to overcome fluid overload. The objective of this study is to observe the effects of peritoneal dialysis in refractory heart failure patients.

Methods

We conducted an observational study including 10 patients with refractory congestive heart failure. Peritoneal dialysis started solely for fluid overload. Patients' baseline parameters were compared with follow-up parameters.

Results

Median age was 57.5 (44.8–64.3) years. Median left ventricular ejection fraction was 20% (18.8–31.3) and all patients had right ventricular dysfunction. Median estimated glomerular filtration rate was 51.2 (43.8–101.3) ml/min/1.73 m2. 2 patients (20%) died during the follow-up period. NewYork Heart Association functional class decreased significantly from a median of 4 to 2,1 and 1 in the 3rd, 6th and 12th month respectively (p ≤ 0.01 for all from baseline). Number and length of hospitalization decreased significantly after treatment (number from a median of 3 to 0, p = 0.013; days from 50.5 to 0, p = 0.028).

Conclusion

Peritoneal dialysis significantly reduced NewYork Heart Association functional class, number and days of hospitalization for heart failure. It could be a reasonable option in chronic treatment of patients with refractory heart failure.

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