Beware: The femoral haemodialysis catheter – a surgeon’s perspective

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.

Keywords

• Femoral vein
• Haemodialysis catheter
• Thrombosis
• Venous stenosis