The next barrier - successful dialysis access needle insertion
In dialysis access care centers with access coordinators, dedicated interventional nephrologists/radiologists, and available surgeons time to access creation and maturation by KDOQI guidelines (>6mm, >600ml/min,<6mm depth, though often after 6weeks) can increasingly be achieved. However, competence of needle insertion into new accesses is very variable among different dialysis units as well as among different staff at ...more »
In dialysis access care centers with access coordinators, dedicated interventional nephrologists/radiologists, and available surgeons time to access creation and maturation by KDOQI guidelines (>6mm, >600ml/min,<6mm depth, though often after 6weeks) can increasingly be achieved. However, competence of needle insertion into new accesses is very variable among different dialysis units as well as among different staff at the same unit. Economic pressures are often mentioned as one obstacle, however, the magnitude of the problem is completely unknown.
Studies need to be performed that a) document the true frequency of access infiltrations (minor and major), b) test the success of staff training models, c) compare button hole with conventional needle insertion technique, d) compare novel button hole device aids in certain populations.
The large dialysis providers in the US should participate in this effort (financially).
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