Recanalization of chronic refractory central venous occlusions utilizing a radiofrequency guidewire perforation technique.

Purpose: To assess the technical success rate and safety of radiofrequency perforation guidewire (RF) technology for the recanalization of refractory chronic central venous occlusions in symptomatic hemodialysis patients with failed conventional endovascular methods.

Methods: This single center retrospective cohort of hemodialysis patients comprised of six men (mean age 67 years, range 55 to 80) with autogenous fistulae, who had already undergone failed conventional endovascular methods. These patients underwent the RF perforation technique from December 2006 to January 2010.

Ultrahigh-pressure angioplasty versus the Peripheral Cutting Balloon™ for treatment of stenoses in autogenous fistulas: comparison of immediate results.

Purpose: To compare the immediate results of ultrahigh-pressure (UHP) balloons vs. peripheral cutting balloons (PCB) for the treatment of stenoses associated with autogenous fistulas using intra-access blood flow measurements.

Materials And Methods: This prospective randomized study consisted of 22 hemodialysis (HD) patients with autogenous fistulas who had decreased intra-access blood flow (<500 mL/min).

Once-daily gentamicin dosing in children with febrile neutropenia resulting from antineoplastic therapy.

Study Objectives: To evaluate an existing once-daily gentamicin dosing guideline in children with febrile neutropenia resulting from antineoplastic therapy and, if necessary, to develop a new simulated dosing guideline that would achieve pharmacokinetic targets more reliably after the first dose.

Design: Pharmacokinetic analysis of data from a retrospective medical record review.

Setting: Hematology-oncology unit of a university-affiliated pediatric hospital in Canada.

The emerging role of advanced nursing practice in acute pain management throughout Canada.

The purpose of this study was to describe the role qualifications and responsibilities related to advanced nursing practice in acute pain management across Canada. The Canadian Nurses Association national framework on advanced nursing practice was used as a guide to identify role components for nurses within this specialty. A self-administered questionnaire of fixed choice and open-ended questions was mailed to nurses in acute pain management throughout Canada.