Use of ultrasound to confirm guidewire position in hemodialysis catheter implantation

Introduction Hemodialysis is the most used dialysis modality in Brazil for the treatment of end-stage chronic kidney disease and severe acute kidney injury. Non-tunneled, short-term, double-lumen catheters allow immediate vascular access in patients without a definitive vascular access for dialysis treatment. Implantation is performed using the Seldinger technique, traditionally based on anatomical landmarks or with puncture under direct visualization by ultrasonography. Confirmation of the placement of the catheter is usually made with a chest X-ray after the end of the procedure. Objective To describe the use of ultrasonography to confirm the proper positioning of the guidewire during catheter implantation in real time, ensuring the desired path. Methods We used the Seldinger technique for catheter implantation. The confirmation of the position of the guidewire occurred after the introduction of 50 cm of this wire, as described in the aforementioned technique. A convex transducer was placed longitudinally below the xiphoid process to visualize the guidewire in the inferior vena cava, or transversely at the same location to visualize it in the cavoatrial junction or right ventricle, using the two-dimensional mode of the ultrasound device. After viewing the guidewire, the catheter implantation proceeded. Results and discussion The technique was performed in 1549 patients, and regarded 2596 catheter implantations over a period of 5 years and 9 months. The only complication observed was local hematoma, occurring in 0.1% of cases. Conclusion Confirmation of guidewire position with ultrasonography during catheter implantation is recommended because it is safe, low cost and ensures correct catheter direction.