Swedish experience of the Dialock.
OBJECTIVE
To study the patency and complications associated with the Dialock, an access device for haemodialysis.


METHODS
The records of seven Swedish patients who were treated with the Dialock access device between 2000 and 2004 were studied retrospectively.


RESULTS
A total of 10 Dialock devices were used in seven patients. The mean period of patency was 16.3+/-13.8 months. Major complications observed were bleeding in the dose pocket in three patients and infection in four. Three patients experienced no complications. The 1-year patency was similar to that of a newly created arteriovenous fistula used in our unit.


CONCLUSIONS
In spite of the associated complications, the Dialock is an acceptable access device for haemodialysis patients with vascular access problems. Although the Dialock is no longer available on the market, similar access devices may be of importance in the future.
Metry
George
G
Department of Nephrology, University Hospital of Linköping, Linköping, Sweden.
Uhlin
Fredrik
F
Almroth
Gabriel
G
D000328:Adult; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D002408:Catheters, Indwelling / Q000009:adverse effects*; D004864:Equipment and Supplies / Q000009:adverse effects; D005260:Female; D006470:Hemorrhage / Q000209:etiology; D006801:Humans; D007239:Infections / Q000209:etiology; D007674:Kidney Diseases / Q000628:therapy; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D006435:Renal Dialysis / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013548:Sweden