Vascular access in continuous arteriovenous hemodiafiltration

We describe experiences with the use of silicone catheters for continuous arteriovenous hemodiafiltration (CAVHD) in 43 patients in the Intensive Care Unit from July 1991 through March 1993. There were no serious complications with regard to the use of these widebore catheters at introduction, during therapy, or at removal. All patients who needed renal replacement therapy could be treated with CAVHD. This low complication rate is probably due to a very strict CAVHD protocol and the fact that only a few people supervise this therapy.