Self-centering split-tip catheter versus conventional split-tip catheter in prevalent hemodialysis patients

This study compared the patency of a split-tip self-centering catheter with a predesigned curve (CentrosFLO; Merit, Salt Lake City, Utah) and a standard split-tip catheter with straight distal limbs (Medcomp, Harleysville, Pennsylvania) catheter in patients requiring exchange of a dysfunctional tunneled dialysis catheter (TDC).

A single-center retrospective chart review was performed between January 2013 and July 2014. Patients had an existing dysfunctional TDC that was exchanged over a wire using the same access site for either a split-tip self-centering catheter with a predesigned curve or a standard split-tip catheter with straight distal limbs catheter. The primary endpoint was catheter patency analyzed at 1, 3, and 6 months after initial exchange.

A total of 73 patients met inclusion criteria (46 in the self-centering catheter group and 27 in the standard split-tipped group). Mean durations of the exchanged catheters were similar between groups. The mean 1-, 3-, and 6-month patency rates for the self-centering and split-tip catheters were 89%, 67.4%, and 23.9% and 81.5%, 40.7%, and 14.8%, respectively. Mean blood flow rates (BFRs) were similar between groups at 1 and 3 months; however, at 6 months, mean rates were 388 mL/min versus 352 mL/min for the self-centering group and split-tipped group, respectively (p<0.01).

These results demonstrate improved patency with the CentrosFLO self-centering catheter versus the split-tip catheter. This may be due to the unique design of the self-centering catheter, allowing for preserved BFRs and patency. These results should be further explored in prospective, randomized multicenter studies.