An appropriate vascular access is always needed for the success of hemodialysis. Internal jugular vein is the safest and less complicated access in between central veins. At the same time, it is the most commonly used temporary vascular access for hemodialysis. The blind method after anatomical marking for the central vascular path is the most used technique in many centers. The use of ultrasound in the placement of hemodi-alysis catheters in the central vein increases the success rate of catheterization. Ultrasound can show IJV locali-zation, anatomical variations, the presence of thrombus in the vein, and whether the vein is open. The aim of this study is to compare the success rate and complication frequency of temporary catheters placed in the IJV with and without ultrasound for hemodialysis.
A total of 124 consecutive patients who required hemodialysis catheters in Haydarpaşa Numune Trai-ning and Research Hospital between February 2012 and December 2012 were randomized to the study. The patients were divided into two groups as non USG-assisted (blindly) (Group 1) and ultrasound-assisted (Group 2).
The use of ultrasound significantly increased the successful catheterization rates of both experienced specialist and resident. In addition, there was no statistical difference between the success rates between the specialist and the resident.
USG-assisted vein catheterization can be performed safely, easily, quickly, more painlessly and with minimal complication rates.
Catheter intervention should be performed under the guidance of USG in risky patient groups who need temporary catheters. In centers that do not have USG, especially in such risky patients, blind catheter interven-tion should not be attempted after anatomical marking. USG-assisted vein catheterization can be easily perfor-med by all clinicians and residents, since the training period is short, practical and much more safe.
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