We performed a retrospective analysis of our institution's experience with the technique of delayed externalization of subcutaneously tunnelled peritoneal dialysis catheters. From 1993 to 1999, 49 catheters were implanted in 37 patients. Median age of the patients was 43.6 years; 70% were female; 32% had diabetes. Most of the catheters were midline, single-cuff, curled Quinton catheters without a swan neck. One patient underwent transplantation prior to catheter externalization. One catheter leaked prior to externalization and was removed. The remaining catheters were externalized a median of 40 days (range: 18-319 days) post implantation. At externalization, two leaks and one omental obstruction occurred, causing primary catheter failure. Total days of catheter follow-up were 17,895. One-year and two-year catheter survival rates were 70% and 40% respectively. Catheter failure occurred owing to infection in 7 cases and to mechanical complications in 10 cases. The rate of exit-site infection was 1 per 9.9 patient-months, and of peritonitis, 1 per 16.2 patient-months. Including primary failures, mechanical complications were 12 hernias, 6 leaks, and 4 instances of malposition. We conclude that delayed externalization of single-cuff catheters without a swan neck is associated with increased mechanical and infectious complications. These findings may warrant a change to a double-cuff catheter with a swan neck.