Central Venous Catheters for Hemodialysis: How to Overcome the Problems

The use of central venous dialysis catheters is increasing in clinical practice. These devices, although relatively easy to insert, do have problems. Catheter size limits the amount of dialysis that can be delivered. Central venous hemodialysis catheters minimize cardiopulmonary recirculation, but have increased potential for access recirculation compared to native or artificial arteriovenous (AV) fistulas and grafts. Developments in catheter design and optimal positioning have improved the amount of dialysis that can be delivered. Similarly, infection rates are improving with careful attention to peri-insertion care and the use of topical antiseptics and antibiotics. Although catheter thrombus remains a problem, the introduction of recombinant tissue plasminogen activator and mechanical dislodgement with an endoluminal brush have improved patency rates, but some patients may require long-term warfarin therapy.