Permanent hemodialysis catheters: How long lasting are they?

Abstract

Background: In this article, we evaluated the most appropriate and safest methods to insert permanent hemodialysis catheters, the complications of these methods and catheter patency rates. Methods: Between January 2008 and June 2012, 127 patients (72 males, 55 females; mean age 65.0±14.7 years; range, 17 to 85 years) in whom a permanent hemodialysis catheter was inserted in our clinic and who continued to undergo hemodialysis program in the hemodialysis unit of our hospital were retrospectively analyzed. Age and sex of the patients, indication for catheter insertion, the localization, reasons for catheter removal, duration of use and catheter-related complications were recorded. Life of the catheter was defined as the period of time from the date in which the catheter was inserted to the date in which the catheter was removed due to catheter-related complications. Results: A total of 155 permanent hemodialysis catheters were inserted to 127 patients. Seventy-nine were inserted via the right jugular vein, 22 via the left jugular vein, 13 via the right subclavian vein, eight via the left subclavian vein, five via right femoral vein. A new permanent catheter was inserted due to infection in seven patients, due to catheter thrombosis in 13 patients, catheter malposition in five patients, and other complications in three patients. Conclusion: The duration of use of a permanent hemodialysis catheter is directly related to an appropriate catheter choice, appropriate localization for insertion, experience of the clinician and with the guidance of ultrasonography or fluoroscopy.