Catheter brushing has made a sweeping difference to our clinical practice

Our experience thus far has been very positive with a zero complication rate. This fact coupled with the benefits of minimizing delays in dialysis schedules, the 'speed' at which the procedure can be performed, and the cost-effectiveness of brushing results in our unit now choosing this technique as first line management for blocked catheters. From the perspective of the patient, there is little or no discomfort associated with the procedure. The simple principles of the brushing technique mean the procedure can be performed at the bedside by an accredited medical officer registrar or registered nurse. Explanation of the procedure and discussion about the benefits of endoluminal brushing versus catheter replacement, coupled with a zero complication rate, has gained the approval of patients. The endoluminal brushing procedure takes approximately 30 minutes to perform, compared with several hours the patient must wait to have a catheter replaced. This results in minimal delays in dialysis schedules and improved client satisfaction. Catheter occlusion and the inconvenience associated with catheter replacement was a very real problem for our HD unit. Our experience to date supports the use of endoluminal brushing as a cost-effective and timely means of restoring catheter patency.