Complications of subclavian catheter hemodialysis: a 5 year prospective study in 257 consecutive patients

The complications related to the use of subclavian catheters for hemodialysis were prospectively studied in 257 consecutive acute and chronic renal failure patients. Using 394 catheters, 3006 single needle dialyses were performed. Indications for starting catheter dialysis were mainly the absence or disappearance of an adequate vascular access. Most hazardous complications were sepsis (9), malposition (6), hemothorax (3), bleeding (2), vena cava thrombosis (2) and pneumothorax (2). A number of mechanical problems occurred, where the obstructed catheter could easily be replaced by a modified Seldinger technique. No mortal complications occurred. Patient tolerance was excellent. It is concluded that single needle subclavian hemodialysis is a valuable alternative vascular access method in acute situations. It enables the continuation of hemodialysis on an ambulatory basis.