Clot accumulation at the tip of hemodialysis catheters in a large animal model

Michael G Tal1, Ron Livne2, Rotem Neeman2

  • 1Assuta Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel.

Insights

The side-hole-free Pristine hemodialysis catheter significantly reduced clot formation compared to standard catheters with side holes. This new catheter design offers a superior option for preventing intraluminal clotting in central venous catheters.

Area of Science:

  • Biomedical Engineering
  • Medical Devices
  • Vascular Access

Background:

  • Central venous catheters (CVCs) with side holes are debated due to clotting potential.
  • Tunneled cuffed CVCs are crucial for long-term hemodialysis.
  • Investigating catheter tip design impact on thrombogenicity is critical.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare the clotting potential of a side-hole-free catheter (Pristine) versus a standard catheter with side holes (GlidePath).
  • To evaluate the efficacy of catheter tip design in preventing intraluminal clot formation.

Main Methods:

  • A comparative study using jugular veins of five goats.
  • Catheterization with Pristine and GlidePath catheters for 4 weeks.
  • Regular assessment of intraluminal clot length and weight.

Main Results:

  • The Pristine catheter showed significantly less mean intraluminal clot length (0.19 cm) compared to the GlidePath catheter (0.66 cm) (p=0.026).
  • Mean retrieved clot weight was lower for the Pristine catheter (0.01 g) versus GlidePath (0.07 g) (p=0.052).
  • Complete aspiration of intraluminal clot was possible with the Pristine catheter.

Conclusions:

  • The Pristine hemodialysis catheter demonstrates superior performance in impeding clot formation.
  • Side-hole-free catheter design significantly reduces thrombogenicity compared to standard side-hole catheters.
  • Pristine catheter facilitates complete clot aspiration, enhancing safety and efficacy.
Abstract