Malfunction of dialysis catheters: management of fibrin sheath and related problems

Suitable central venous access for hemodialysis is frequently required in patients with end-stage renal disease, whenever an arteriovenous fistula or peritoneal dialysis fails or is not a possibility. Ultimately, long-term dialysis via central access may result in dysfunctional catheter with problems such as malpositioning of catheter tip, fibrin sheath formation, thrombosis, infection, and bleeding. The role of interventional radiology is to deliver appropriate treatment to maintain patent and functional access, while minimizing the risk of venous occlusive disease. This article aims at describing different techniques and approaches for management of fibrin sheath associated with malfunctioning tunneled dialysis catheters, as well as to provide scientific evidence from the current literature.