Percutaneous internal jugular vein catheterization with double lumen for temporary hemodialysis: experience of 100...

We studied a total of 100 patients (46 men, 54 women) with renal failure requiring hemodialysis therapy by using double lumen catheter for temporary vascular access through the internal jugular vein. Fifteen patients had acute renal failure and 85 patients had end stage renal disease (including 27 cases of DM nephropathy). The mean length of time the catheter was in situ was 18.7 +/- 11.1 days (2-67 days); the mean frequency of the hemodialysis performed through this access was 7.8 +/- 4.6 (1-27). Recirculation rate was 7.19 +/- 2.68% (3.2-10.7%). The blood flow during hemodialysis was 180-200 ml/min. There was no catheter related mortality. The most common complication was catheter related septicemia (4%). Local infection of the catheter entry site occurred in 3 cases. Inadequate blood flow was detected in 3 cases. Two episodes of arrhythmia (atrial premature contractions, short runs of ventricular tachycardia) developed during the first hemodialysis procedure. Hematoma due to accidental puncture of the carotid artery was noted in one case. Neither pneumothorax nor hemothorax was detected. Our experiences revealed that the percutaneous internal jugular vein catheterization with a double lumen catheter is a safe and efficient temporary vascular access for hemodialysis.