Beware: The femoral haemodialysis catheter - a surgeon's perspective

S Afr Med J. 2017 May 24;107(6):480-482. doi: 10.7196/SAMJ.2017.v107i6.12391.

Abstract

The ability to identify and address factors that threaten the optimal utilisation of donor organs is quintessential in obtaining satisfactory transplant outcomes. We share our concerns regarding the prolonged use of femoral haemodialysis catheters and its potential to jeopardise successful renal transplantation. Despite a paucity of literature on the topic, we review relevant aspects related to this pernicious form of vascular access and clarify its limited role in the modern haemodialysis unit, particularly in patients who are still considered for transplantation.

MeSH terms

  • Catheterization, Central Venous / adverse effects*
  • Constriction, Pathologic / etiology
  • Femoral Vein / diagnostic imaging*
  • Humans
  • Iliac Vein / diagnostic imaging*
  • Kidney Failure, Chronic / therapy*
  • Kidney Transplantation
  • Phlebography
  • Renal Dialysis / methods*
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed