Creation of a carotid-jugular fistula for repeated hemoaccess in a canine model

We have developed a method to obtain access to the arterial circulation in the dog, which can be used for repeated hemoperfusion, hemodialysis, and for pharmacokinetic studies. Hemoaccess is achieved by the surgical creation of a carotid-jugular fistula. Using the fistula, which is internal and autogenous, has overcome the problems of thrombosis, dislodgement, and infection, which are associated with external shunts. Blood flow rates of between 70 and 100 ml/min in 12-kg dogs were obtained through a hemodialysis pump. The surgical techniques are described in detail so that other investigators can avail themselves of the methodology.