Use of Real-Time Ultrasound Guidance for the Placement of Hemodialysis Catheters: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Abstract

Insertion of percutaneous hemodialysis catheters is an invasive procedure with a small but definite risk of morbidity and mortality. Assessing potential benefits of using real-time 2-dimensional Doppler ultrasound imaging guidance for the insertion of hemodialysis catheters compared with insertion based solely on anatomic landmarks. Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. MEDLINE (1966 to July 2010), EMBASE (1980 to July 2010), Cochrane Renal Group Specialised Register, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL). Patients requiring hemodialysis catheter insertion. We included all randomized controlled trials regardless of publication status or language. Real-time 2-dimensional Doppler ultrasound image guidance. Catheter placement failures, catheters failed to be placed in the first attempt, attempts per catheter inserted, time taken for successful venous puncture, and complications (carotid artery puncture, pneumo- or hemothorax, neck hematoma, and brachial plexus injury). Treatment effects were summarized with the RR measure for dichotomous outcomes and mean difference for continuous outcomes. 7 trials with 830 catheters were identified. Ultrasound guidance significantly decreased the risk of the following outcomes: catheter placement failure (7 studies, 830 catheters; RR, 0.12; 95% CI, 0.04-0.37), failure to place catheter on first attempt (5 studies, 595 catheters; RR, 0.40; 95% CI, 0.29-0.56), arterial punctures (6 trials, 785 catheters; RR, 0.22; 95% CI, 0.06-0.81), and hematoma formation (4 trials, 323 catheters; RR, 0.27; 95% CI, 0.08-0.88). It also significantly decreased the time to cannulate the vein (1 trial, 73 catheters; mean difference, -1.40; 95% CI, -2.17 to -0.63), and number of attempts per catheter insertion (1 trial, 110 catheters; mean difference, -0.35; 95% CI, -0.54 to -0.16). Only 7 studies were identified, of which 3 were reported in only a conference abstract form. Some outcomes were reported in only 1 study. Use of real-time Doppler ultrasound guidance has benefits with respect to several important clinical outcomes, and its routine use in the insertion of hemodialysis catheters is strongly recommended.