Systematic review of locking solutions for non-tunneled hemodialysis catheters.

BACKGROUND: We conducted a systematic review of studies investigating lock solutions for use in non-tunneled hemodialysis catheters.

METHODS: We searched PubMed and Cochrane databases from inception to June 11, 2021. Study inclusion criteria were: randomized trial or observational study, adults (>18 years), with acute kidney injury (AKI); and temporary non-tunneled catheters. We recorded bleeding events, catheter dysfunction and complications.

RESULTS: Of 649 studies identified, 6 were included (4 randomized, 1 non-randomized trial, 1 retrospective cohort study; sample sizes 78-1496 patients). Citrate was compared to heparin in 4 studies, to saline in 1, and ethanol versus saline in 1. Event-free survival of non-tunneled catheters did not differ between groups. Catheter-related infections and adverse events were less frequent with citrate locks, but reached statistical significance in only two studies.

CONCLUSION: Existing data are too heterogeneous to enable recommending one type of catheter lock over any other for non-tunneled hemodialysis catheters.