Modified Exchange Technique for Management of Dysfunctional Tunneled Hemodialysis Catheters in the Presence of Exit-Site Infection: A Quality Improvement Report

Abstract

Over-the-wire exchange is a standard treatment for patients with tunneled hemodialysis catheters (THCs) that fail to maintain sufficient extracorporeal blood flow. However, this well-known procedure is unsuitable in the presence of exit-site infection (ESI). In such cases, a modified exchange technique with introduction of the new THC through a remote exit site and the preexisting subcutaneous tunnel may be a solution. Quality improvement report. Since 2005, a total of 28 consecutive dysfunctional THCs with ESI in 23 patients who did not have tunnel infection or bacteremia before the procedures was included. Introduction of the new THC through a remote exit site and preexisting subcutaneous tunnel. Technical success, perioperative complications, infection rates, and catheter function were recorded for analysis. There was only 1 failure, giving an overall technical success rate of 96%. The other 27 exchanged THCs achieved satisfactory flow during subsequent hemodialysis, and the ESI gradually resolved within 2 weeks. Although 8 episodes of new ESI occurred, no subcutaneous tunnel infection or bacteremia occurred within 120 days. Bedridden patients had more occurrences of new ESIs than nonbedridden patients (6 of 9 versus 2 of 13 patients; P = 0.03). Primary catheter patency rates were 100% at 30 days, 82% at 90 days, and 77% at 120 days. Secondary catheter patency rates were 100% at 30 days, 91% at 90 days, and 91% at 120 days. A small number of cases and comparison with previous studies of THC exchange. For dysfunctional THCs with ESI, exchange through remote exit sites and preexisting subcutaneous tunnels is feasible and can be used repeatedly for patients prone to ESI, such as the bedridden. This modified exchange technique is also preferable for operators who question the sterility of previous exit sites and are reluctant to use the over-the-wire technique.