Median sternotomy for an unexpected complication of permanent hemodialysis catheters: "stuck catheter"

Vasa. 2008 Aug;37(3):293-6. doi: 10.1024/0301-1526.37.3.293.

Abstract

Cuffed tunneled venous access catheters are commonly used for temporary and permanent access in patients undergoing hemodialysis. These catheters play an essential role in providing permanent access in patients in whom all other access options have been exhausted. However, they are prone to several complications like catheter thrombosis, catheter fibrin sheating and infection. Herein, we report two uncommon cases of stuck hemodialysis cuffed tunneled catheters causing stenosis and thrombosis in central veins which needed to be removed by median sternotomy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Blood Vessel Prosthesis Implantation
  • Catheterization, Central Venous / adverse effects*
  • Catheters, Indwelling / adverse effects*
  • Constriction, Pathologic
  • Device Removal*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Phlebography
  • Renal Dialysis*
  • Sternum / surgery*
  • Thrombectomy
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Venous Thrombosis / diagnostic imaging
  • Venous Thrombosis / etiology
  • Venous Thrombosis / surgery*