Dealing with stuck hemodialysis catheter: state of the art and tips for the nephrologist.

Authors: Forneris G, Savio D, Quaretti P, Fiorina I, Cecere P, Pozzato M, Trogolo M, Roccatello D
Abstract
The term stuck catheter refers to the condition in which a catheter is not removable from a central vein using standard techniques. Although it is a rare complication, in the last few years it has been reported ever more frequently in hemodialysis due to the widespread use of tunneled catheters. Poor knowledge of the correct procedures and limited experience and training of the specialist in facing this problem are the main reasons for catheter internalization. Stuck catheter is often diagnosed by the nephrologist, who should be competent enough to manage this clinical complication. Among the many options for removing a stuck catheter from the fibrin sleeve, an interventional ...