The cannon catheter--a prospective analysis.

Clinical outcomes associated with hemodialysis catheters often depend on correct tip positioning. Improper positioning of the catheter tips can reduce blood flow and lead to long-term complications. The authors evaluated the clinical performance of the Arrow Cannon II Plus hemodialysis catheter (Teleflex Medical, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina), a catheter that was designed for tip-first (retrograde) placement to ensure accurate central positioning in the right atrium for optimal flow and minimal recirculation. This 6-month prospective analysis found that the catheter provided high blood flow rates (maximum flow, 410.9-to 430.4 mL/min; mean flow, 378.9-402.4 mL/min) with recirculation rates well below the Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (KDOQI) limit (3.6% to 0%). In summary, the Arrow Cannon II Plus hemodialysis catheter was associated with high blood flow rates and minimal complications. Tip-first placement of this novel device represents an important advancement in vascular access for high-performance hemodialysis.