Constant site (Buttonhole) method of needle insertion for hemodialysis

Abstract

Available data are suggesting that insertion of the hemodialysis needles in exactly the same spot for consecutive dialyses (the “buttonhole” method) may be associated with fewer complications as compared with using different needle insertion sites for each dialysis. The buttonhole method is becoming popular among home hemodialysis patients. This paper will describe the origin of the method, early results, and the reasons why the method has not gained widespread popularity in U.S. hemodialysis centers. Dial. Transplant. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.