Hemodynamics and flow characteristics of a new dialysis port

ASAIO J. 2014 Jan-Feb;60(1):81-9. doi: 10.1097/MAT.0000000000000015.

Abstract

Renal replacement therapy by hemodialysis requires a permanent vascular access. Implantable ports offer a potential alternative to standard vascular access strategies although their development is limited both in number and extent. We explored the fluid dynamics within two new percutaneous bone-anchored dialysis port prototypes, both by in vitro experiments and computer simulation. The new port is to be fixed to bone and allows the connection of a dialysis machine to a central venous catheter via a built-in valve. We found that the pressure drop induced by the two ports was between 20 and 50 mmHg at 500 ml/min, which is comparable with commercial catheter connectors (15-80 mmHg). We observed the formation of vortices in both geometries, and a shear rate in the physiological range (<10,000s-1), which is lower than maximal shear rates reported in commercial catheters (up to 13,000s-1). A difference in surface shear rate of 15% between the two ports was obtained.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Finite Element Analysis
  • Hemodynamics / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Renal Dialysis / instrumentation*
  • Vascular Access Devices*