During the patient panel, I learned about the Medisystems double-lumen needle. The exterior lumen is 14 French, and it houses a more narrow needle inside. It is FDA-cleared for use in the US, and is currently undergoing pilot testing in 5-6 centers. It is hoped the double-lumen needle will be more generally available in January 2016.
Panelist Sharon Bradley holds the double-lumen needle in the photo above. She says it's "the best thing since sliced bread." Sharon had a very calm way about describing her home dialysis experiences. She seemed to take everything in stride - and was very clear about how home hemodialysis had improved her quality of life. NxStage should be hiring her as a spokesperson.
No doubt, a single needle-stick would improve the experience for many!
Many thanks to University of Indiana's Mike Kraus MD for coordinating a great conference.
Take care,
Linda Gromko MD
