Can the Button-Hole Technique Improve the Quality of Life of Hemodialysis Patients?

Abstract

For about 30 years the button-hole (B-H) technique has been used in several medical centers throughout the world, yielding contrasting results as for the survival of arteriovenous fistula, infections, hematomas, and pain during needle insertion. In this study we report the case of a medium-scale medical center that has been using the B-H technique for 4 years with satisfying results. These are likely to derive from the careful disinfection carried out, the supporting role of informatics tools and, particularly, from the strong determination of the caregivers, encouraged by the first positive results.