Update on cannulation techniques

Abstract

There are two methods of fistula cannulation for hemodialysis. The first, different site or rope-ladder cannulation method, established by originators of the arteriovenous fistula as a blood access for hemodialysis in 1966, relies on changing the puncture sites for each dialysis. The second, constant site or buttonhole method, developed several years later, recommends using the same puncture sites for consecutive dialyses. The first method is prevailing at present, but the second method is becoming more and more popular. The major advantage of this buttonhole method is lower cannulation pain, fewer fistula complications, with the exception of fistula infection, which is more common in some studies. This method is more difficult and requires experienced single cannulator to establish good puncture sites. Home hemodialysis patients using single cannulator, the patient or helper, have better results with this method. Busy dialysis centers with high rotation of cannulators do not have as good results and prefer the rope-ladder method.