Use of permanent dual lumen catheters for long-term haemodialysis

J A Akoh1

  • 1Department of Surgery, West Glasgow Hospitals University NHS Trust, Western Infirmary, UK. Jaakoh@aol.com

International Surgery
|July 17, 1999
PubMed

Insights

Permanent dual lumen catheters (PDLC) offer crucial long-term hemodialysis access for patients unsuitable for other methods. These catheters demonstrate significant survival rates, though blockage and infection remain key complications.

Area of Science:

  • Nephrology
  • Vascular Surgery
  • Medical Devices

Background:

  • Permanent dual lumen catheters (PDLC) serve as an alternative vascular access for patients ineligible for arteriovenous fistula, arteriovenous graft, or peritoneal dialysis.
  • Long-term hemodialysis requires reliable vascular access, and PDLCs are increasingly utilized in specific patient populations.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To present the clinical experience and outcomes of using permanent dual lumen catheters for long-term hemodialysis.
  • To evaluate the efficacy, complications, and survival rates associated with PDLCs in a cohort of patients.

Main Methods:

  • A retrospective analysis of 101 PDLC insertions in 63 patients between January 1990 and April 1994.
  • Data collected included patient demographics, insertion site (predominantly subclavian vein), duration of use, complications, and reasons for removal.

Main Results:

  • The median duration of catheter use was 168 days, with a range of 5-1582 days.
  • Overall cumulative catheter survival rates were 94% at 6 months, 89% at 1 year, and 75% at 4 years.
  • Major complications included blockage (28%) and catheter-related infection (15%); death and blockage were primary reasons for removal.

Conclusions:

  • Permanent dual lumen catheters are vital for long-term dialysis access, particularly in patients with limited life expectancy.
  • PDLCs demonstrate favorable survival rates and should be considered a primary access option in selected hemodialysis patients.

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