AngioDynamics' Centros Catheter Fits into a Cylinder

AngioDynamics recently launched Centros, a self-centering, tunneled hemodialysis access catheter.

Centros, designed by Stephen R. Ash, M.D., FACP, is a self-centering, tunneled hemodialysis access catheter that has a curved configuration that allows it to be placed in the superior vena cava in a centered position, without touching the vein walls. Rather than being placed in the atrium, the tip of the catheter is placed in the lower third of the superior vena cava.

“Centros changes the conventional catheter paradigm from a line to a plane, meaning the catheter fits into a cylinder in the middle of the vein and won’t lie in contact against the vein wall like prevalent dual-lumen tunneled dialysis catheters,” said Dr. Ash. “Contact with the vein wall often results in sheathing or clots, which can easily obstruct the ports. While a large clinical study will more fully document the benefits of this new design approach, the preliminary study gives us confidence that Centros will have long-term advantages for patients.”