A Proposed Simple and Accurate Technique for Optimal Long-Term Hemodialysis Catheter Tip Placement

Abstract

We describe a simple ultrasound (US)-guided technique for accurate anatomical right atrium localization prior to permanent hemodialysis catheter insertion. It is used in patients for whom a permanent hemodialysis catheter will be inserted through an internal jugular vein access, in order to have the functional catheter tip located at the mid-level of the right atrium. In this technique, the right atrium is localized on US via left intercostal approach prior to catheter insertion under fluoroscopic guidance.

Keywords

• Catheter
• dialysis
• technique
• interventional radiology