Two different techniques and outcomes for insertion of long-term tunnelled haemodialysis catheters

Renal Units employ different techniques for insertion of long-term haemodialysis catheters into jugular veins, and we decided to ascertain the success rate and peri-insertion complications of two percutaneous methods in a District General Hospital.

Results of venous cannulation from two studies using different techniques were obtained and compared. Both studies were prospective and the procedures were performed by the same Clinician in patients with end stage renal failure. Patients were divided into two groups. Group A had venous catheters inserted under ultrasonographic guidance using a Site Rite portable machine and Group B were inserted 'blind'. The aseptic percutaneous Seldinger technique was used for catheterizations in both groups.

The first attempt/pass venous cannulation success rate was 88.6% in Group A compared to 61.4% in Group B. Complications rate was significantly lower in Group A (P = 0.0048) than in Group B.

In this study the ultrasonographic guided technique was better than the blind technique in jugular venous cannulations.