A new mechanical device for declotting of hemodialysis access grafts: first clinical experience.

Purpose: To review the early clinical experience with a new mechanical thrombectomy device for declotting polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) hemodialysis access (HDA) grafts.

Methods: The XTD is a 6-F introducer-compatible device that pulverizes clot with a rotating curved tip driven by a flexible spiral shaft. Fragments are aspirated into a collection container.

Standardizing evaluation of on-line continuing medical education: physician knowledge, attitudes, and reflection on practice.

Introduction: Physicians increasingly earn continuing medical education (CME) credits through on-line courses, but there have been few rigorous evaluations to determine their effects. The present study explores the feasibility of implementing standardized evaluation templates and tests them to evaluate 30 on-line CME courses.

Methods: A time series design was used to compare the knowledge, attitudes, and reported changes in practice of physician participants who completed any of 30 on-line CME courses that were hosted on an academic CME Web site and a CME Web portal during the period from August 1, 2002, through March 31, 2003.