Differential Impact of Central Venous Catheters versus Arteriovenous Fistulae on Quality of Life among Irish Haemodialysis Patients

Abstract

Vascular access contributes to HRQoL in hemodialysis. CVCs are associated with fewer difficulties from bleeding and bruising but greater negative effect on social activities, including bathing and showering. Overall, patients with a CVC had lower dissatisfaction scores than patients with an AVF when all three domains were added. Innovation in vascular access design and engineering may confer benefits and improve patient comfort on HD.