Where is the catheter typically placed in a patient undergoing peritoneal dialysis?

In peritoneal dialysis, the catheter is typically placed in the abdomen. This is because the procedure relies on the peritoneal cavity, which is the space within the abdomen that houses the intestines, liver, and other organs, to act as the dialysis membrane. The catheter allows for the infusion and drainage of dialysis solution into and out of this cavity.

The placement in the abdomen enables the solution to absorb waste products and excess fluids from the blood through the peritoneal lining, which contains numerous blood vessels. This process cleanses the blood over time. The other locations mentioned are not suitable for this type of dialysis; the leg, chest, and back do not provide the necessary access to the peritoneal cavity required for the procedure to be effective.