ABSTRACT

Purpose:

To evaluate the technical success and immediate outcomes of tunneled hemodialysis catheters placed via the internal jugular vein under the guidance of ultrasonography and fluoroscopy

Methods:

Between January 2003 and April 2005, 152 tunneled hemodialysis catheters were placed via the right or left internal jugular vein under the guidance of ultrasonography and fluoroscopy in the interventional radiology unit. All cases were retrospectively analyzed for technical success, and evidence of complications, malposition or dysfunction of the catheter.

Results:

All catheters were placed successfully (technical success rate was 100%). No major complications such as pneumothorax, hematoma or pseudoaneurysm due to arterial puncture were observed. All catheters were positioned successfully with the tip at the atriocaval junction. In eight patients catheter kinking was observed at the internal jugular vein insertion site and this was immediately corrected before the catheter placement was completed.

Conclusion:

Placement of tunneled hemodialysis catheters via the internal jugular vein under the guidance of ultrasonography and fluoroscopy is an effective and reliable procedure. Ultrasonographic and fluoroscopic guidance provides excellent technical success rates, resulting in fewer complications and catheter dysfunctions.