Alteplase for Blood Flow Restoration in Hemodialysis Catheters

Summary

We are investigating a new way of administering alteplase to remove clots from hemodialysis catheters. Currently, alteplase is left to dwell inside the catheter between dialysis treatments to dissolve the clot and restore blood flow through the catheter. We have developed a new way to administer alteplase by advancing it to the tip of the catheter at regular 10 minute intervals. We hypothesize that our new "push" protocol will dissolve clots in hemodialysis catheters better and faster than the current dwell method.

Timeline

Start

2004-09

Primary completion

2008-12

Completion

2008-12

Publications

• Background Zacharias JM, Weatherston CP, Spewak CR, Vercaigne LM. Alteplase versus urokinase for occluded hemodialysis catheters. Ann Pharmacother. 2003 Jan;37(1):27-33. doi: 10.1345/aph.1C105.

Drugs

Indications