Analysis of the functioning of temporary dialysis catheters in patients with COVID-19

2.IntroductionPatients with acute renal failure requiring hemodialysis should use temporary hemodialysis catheters (THC) due to the urgency and potential reversibility of the condition. So far, three studies in North America indicate a higher risk of catheter-related issues in COVID-19 patients needing hemodialysis. This study examines the functionality and complications of temporary hemodialysis access in COVID-19 patients at a Brazilian hospital. MethodologyA prospective analysis was conducted at a COVID-19 referral center between May and July 2020. During this time, the Vascular Surgery team implanted temporary hemodialysis catheters in 107 patients. The patients were followed, and demographic and clinical characteristics that could be correlated with catheter malfunction were analyzed. ResultsOf the 107 patients studied, 22 (20,6%) experienced complications related to the catheter. Eighteen (16,8%) had malfunctions, and 4 (3,7%) had infections. Five patients evolved with unfavorable clinical conditions and did not undergo catheter replacement. Thirteen patients with malfunctions had catheter tip thrombosis as the cause of the malfunction. Among the variables analyzed, only the need for orotracheal intubation (p 0,009), deep vein thrombosis (p 0,01), and a history of a previous catheter (p 0,002) were found to be correlated with a higher risk of malfunctioning. ConclusionThe rate of temporary high-flow catheter malfunction in patients with COVID-19 is similar to that in patients without this disease. Previous catheter use, the necessity for OTI, and venous thrombosis were the main predictors of catheter malfunction.