Inside-out access to central vein - the first experience with The Surfacer(R) system

Abstract

The aim of this work is to present the first use of inside-out puncture of the central vein using Surfacer(R) system in the Czech Republic in two patients. This is a novel method that enables to access centralvenous system via occluded right brachiocephalic and intemal jugular vein.

The method is beneficial for patients requiring long-term centralvenous access. This method enables to introduce any type of central venous catheter or even pacemaker electrodes into the superior vena cava.

Using this method the patients can avoid venous line through inguinalvessels and spare left-sided central veins if used in a timely manner in order to avoid possible superior vena cava syndrome.

Keywords

• central venous access
• haemodialysis catheter
• inside-out puncture
• Surfacer(R)