Hemodialysis central venous catheter dysfunction.

Despite aggressive efforts to increase autogenous fistula prevalence, catheters remain an essential access modality to a large percentage of the hemodialysis population. Central venous catheter dysfunction, which includes catheter-related bacteremia and thrombotic occlusion, comprises the majority of complications which affect dialysis adequacy, patient quality of life, patient survival, and the economics of health care. This review provides a comprehensive overview of hemodialysis central venous catheter dysfunction, its epidemiology and risk factors, and avenues of prevention and treatment. Novel directions for future investigation are also addressed.