Quantification of Complications of Tunneled Hemodialysis Catheters

Tunneled central venous catheters (CVCs) are widely regarded as a suboptimal form of vascular access for hemodialysis (HD), when compared with arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) or grafts (AVGs).1 Nevertheless, CVCs are frequently used in patients who do not yet have an AVF or AVG suitable for dialysis or those who have exhausted all options for a permanent access. CVC use for HD varies greatly among countries.2 In the United States, a CVC is used in approximately 70% to 80% of patients initiating HD therapy and 15% to 20% of prevalent patients.

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