Using ultrasound to help with difficult hemodialysis access

Ultrasound-guided Cannulation of Difficult Hemodialysis Arteriovenous Access: A Randomized Controlled Trial

This study is testing whether using a handheld ultrasound device can help patients with difficult hemodialysis access by making it easier to place needles in their arteriovenous fistulas.

Quick facts

• Phase: Not applicable
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 50 (estimated)
• Ages: 20 Years to 90 Years
• Sex: All
• Sponsor: National Taiwan University Hospital (Academic / other)
• Locations: 1 site (Taipei City)
• Trial ID: NCT06381310 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study focuses on improving the success rate of cannulating arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) in patients undergoing hemodialysis, particularly those who have experienced multiple failed attempts. It employs a handheld ultrasound device to guide the placement of needles, aiming to enhance the accuracy of cannulation. The study targets patients who have had difficulty with traditional cannulation methods due to factors such as bruising or anatomical challenges. By utilizing ultrasound technology, the study seeks to provide a more effective approach to accessing AVFs for dialysis.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are patients with end-stage renal disease who have had multiple failed attempts at cannulation of their AVF and meet specific ultrasound criteria.

Not a fit: Patients under 20 years old or those with complex vascular pathways deemed high risk for complications will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve the quality of life for hemodialysis patients by reducing complications and increasing the success rate of cannulation.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using ultrasound for vascular access, indicating that this approach may be effective.

Eligibility criteria

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Those who can undergo the first arteriovenous canal puncture after being evaluated by a physician more than 8 weeks after surgery.
2. The puncture has failed more than 2 times, and there are bruises or hematomas around the arteriovenous and venous vessels.
3. Arteriovenous and venous ducts Ultrasonic detection of arteriovenous and venous ducts ≧0.4, the depth of blood vessels from the skin is 0.4-0.7 cm.
4. The patient has clear consciousness and normal cognitive and communication abilities.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Under 20 years old.
2. Complex pathways assessed by physicians as having a high risk of complications (diameter ≤ 0.4 cm or depth of blood vessel from skin ≥ 0.8 cm).

Where this trial is running

Taipei City

• National Taiwan University Hospital Bei-Hu Branch — Taipei City, Taiwan (Recruiting)

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Tsuei-Wun Chang

Conditions Successful Cannulation