Insertion of permanent hemodialysis catheters through the great saphenous vein.

Introduction: In patients with end stage renal disease when there is inability for the creation of a direct arterio-venous fistula or by using a graft, the insertion of a permanent hemodialysis catheter in a central vein ensures the conduction of hemodialysis. We present a technique of placing a permanent catheter in the inferior vena cava through the great saphenous vein without the use of a guide wire.

Patients-methods: Over the study period, 12 hemodialyzed patients, with a mean age of 73 years, were referred for placement of a dialysis catheter through the great saphenous veins.