Selecting Optimal Hemodialysis Catheters: Material, Design, Advanced Features, and Preferences

Hemodialysis catheters are a necessary evil. They provide an immediate and effective lifeline for hemodialysis patients, and their use is steadily increasing. This increasingly important role has lead to the development of many generations of dialysis catheters. Some aspects of novel designs have shown potential to reduce complications, while others provide options for physician insertion preference. The two major biomaterials for catheter construction are currently polyurethane and silicone, while copolymers such as carbothane are becoming more widespread. Catheter coatings such as heparin, antibiotics, and silver ion are designed to minimize thrombosis and infection. Finally, many lumen and tip designs are also available. These new features were designed to address common problems, including maintenance of adequate flow rate and prevention of thrombosis, fibrin sheath, and catheter-related infection. However, reliable data directly comparing these different designs and coatings are currently lacking. This communication reviews current hemodialysis catheters, including materials, design, and advanced features.