Comparison of subclavian vein with femoral vein catheterization for hemodialysis.

Subclavian vein catheterization (SVC) is not widely accepted for vascular access because it is considered more invasive than femoral vein catheterization (FVC). The use of FVC and SVC for acute vascular access was compared for 9 mo each. Complications were minimal with both, but access related hospitalizations were lower and the number of out-patient dialyses performed were higher with SVC than FVC. Complications with SVC might have been minimized by using an 18-gauge metallic needle for insertion, avoiding interdialytic infusions and using SVC for less than 4 wk.