At the Clinical Center of Montenegro (KCCG), the installation of a permanent tunneled dialysis catheter, also known as a Hickman catheter, was performed for the first time.
As announced by the KCCG, this procedure, which has so far been performed exclusively abroad, represents a significant step forward for the Montenegrin healthcare system and brings relief to patients who require long-term hemodialysis.
"The intervention, according to the most modern standards, which include the use and guidance of ultrasound and fluoroscopy, was performed independently by the KCCG team, headed by the surgeon of the Center for Vascular Surgery, Dr. Tahir Kalač. This method of performing the procedure allows for the greatest safety and precision when placing the catheter. The introduction of this method is the result of a three-week training course by Dr. Tahir Kalač at the hospital in Trbovlje, Slovenia - one of the three European reference educational centers within the Vascular Access Society (VAS)," it was announced.
In addition to Kalač, the team also included Dr. Jasmina Lekić of the Surgical Clinic, and instrument operators Mirko Veljović, Lazar Popović and Maja Radulović.
The statement states that the establishment of this procedure in regular operation at the KCCG will significantly raise treatment standards because it will enable patients to undergo faster and safer hemodialysis, without the need to go abroad.
"It was implanted in a patient whose options for creating an AV fistula, either native or with an artificial graft, had been exhausted. Immediately after the procedure, the patient underwent hemodialysis through the newly implanted catheter, which went smoothly. After a short hospitalization, the patient was discharged from hospital treatment. This is a special type of central venous access that is introduced under the skin and through a large vein, most often in the chest area. It is intended for patients who need long-term and safe access for hemodialysis, when other methods, such as arteriovenous fistulas or grafts, are not possible or have been exhausted," it was announced.
It was explained that the main advantages are that it allows continuous and reliable venous access for hemodialysis, is placed minimally invasively using ultrasound and X-ray guidance, and provides better comfort and a lower risk of complications compared to temporary catheters.
The duration of an indwelling catheter can range from several months to several years, depending on the patient's condition and proper maintenance. Regular check-ups and adequate hygiene are key to its longevity and safety.
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