Indwelling silicone femoral catheters: experience of three haemodialysis centres

The aim of this study is to describe the experience of three haemodialysis centres using indwelling femoral silicone catheter (model SSL 1220M, Medcomp, USA) in 55 patients, three with acute renal failure, one requiring plasmapheresis, and 51 with chronic renal failure but no other available vascular access. Sixty-four catheters were in place for a mean duration of 41.5 +/- 30 days. The rate of catheter-related complications, including mechanical problems, thromboses, and infections was low and they were never life-threatening. The results of the study suggest that femoral cannulation with modern flexible devices can be considered as a reliable temporary access, even for extended periods, with advantages exceeding those for subclavian and jugular routes.