Subclavian cannula for temporary hemodialysis.

A new silastic and teflon cannula has been developed for temporary hemodialysis access. It is introduced through the subclavian vein by the Seldinger technique. The cannula which is quick and easy to insert, can be used repeatedly for weeks or months without limiting the patient's mobility and without the need for repeated vessel punctures. Complications are few and largely preventable. Since introduction of the subclavian hemodialysis cannula at the Toronto Western Hospital in September 1977 no patient with end-stage renal failure has required insertion of a silastic-teflon shunt or temporary peritoneal dialysis, nor has hemodialysis had to be postponed because of lack of an arteriovenous fistula.