NO-NEEDLE DIALYSIS (NND) - EXPERIENCE WITH THE NEW CARBON TRANS-CUTANEOUS HEMODIALYSIS (HD) ACCESS DEVICE (CTAD)

  • 1 January 1981
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 15  (6) , 302-308
Abstract
A new carbon transcutaneous access device (CTAD) for hemodialysis is described that precludes the need for needle puncture. The device consists of a vitreous carbon access port attached to a PTFE [polytetrafluroethylene] graft. A disposable connector provides for movement of blood from the device into and out of the dialyzer. Twenty-one of the devices have been implanted in 18 patients. Overall 9 mo. patency rate is 64.3%, comparing favorably with conventional PTFE grafts. The incidence of infection (1/0.05 patient mo.) and thrombosis (28.6% at 9 mo.) similarly compare favorably with other forms of vascular access. The CTAD provides a unique opportunity by permitting hemodialysis without the pain or risk of needle punctures.