Endovascular Closure of an Acquired Vascular Fistula, an Uncommon Complication of a Tunneled Hemodialysis Catheter: A Case Report.

Abstract

Purpose: The objective of this case is to report an endovascular occlusion of an acquired vascular fistula using an Amplatzer Vascular Plug II. Also, it is to review the available literature on risk factors, pathophysiology, and related management strategies about complications of the tunneled central venous catheter (TCVC).

Case report: The case was a 40-year-old man with a chronic kidney disease (CKD) on dialysis and with a history of several previous TCVC placements, along with recurrent infections. The last TCVC developed a fistula between the superior vena cava and the right pulmonary artery, shown by computed tomography (CT). We decided to remove a long-term TCVC and occluded the fistula applying an endovascular embolic device, an Amplatzer Vascular Plug II, subsequently. The patient was given parenteral treatment during 10 days of hospitalization. Over 9 months of follow-up, the device was appropriately positioned and did not obstruct the vascular flow.

Conclusion: Tunneled central venous catheters are frequently used for hemodialysis in patients in the last stage of CKD who do not have an arteriovenous fistula. Occasionally, delayed complications such as adherence or catheter migration occur. This case illustrates an endovascular treatment with excellent results and low risk of morbidity and mortality.

Clinical impact: The purpose of this work is to present an endovascular occlusion by means of an Amplatzer® Vascular Plug II in a residual fistula. The endovascular way is decided in situations, for instance, once the cardiothoracic surgeons argue that the patient is not in general conditions to tolerate surgery, the surgical procedure would be complex, or, in a surgical approach with a difficult-to-resolve hemorrhage. We explain the technique and the materials we used for an excellent result and a low risk of complications. This case is intended to serve as an aid in the treatment of similar events.