Haemodialysis plastic cannulae - a possible alternative to traditional metal needles?

BACKGROUND: Haemodialysis plastic cannulae for arteriovenous fistulae (AVF) have been used for many years in Japan and recently this technique was introduced in Australia.

OBJECTIVES: Find answers to the following questions:What are the pros and cons of plastic cannulae versus traditional metal needles for AVF and arteriovenous graft (AVG)? Is the use of plastic cannulae instead of traditional metal needles an option for European dialysis units as well? If it is an option, for which patients should plastic cannulae be used?

METHODS: Literature search via PubMed and Google.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Due to the characteristics of plastic cannulae, they seem to be well suited for restless patients, patients with unpredictable behaviour, children, and patients who are allergic to metal.However, the evidence base provided by studies on the use of cannulae is currently weak. More controlled randomised studies are needed.