Efficacy of Low-Dose Streptokinase Infusion in Late-Onset Permanent Tunnel Catheter Dysfunction: A Single-Center Interventional Study

Introduction Hemodialysis is a vital modality for patients with renal dysfunction, with venous access being a significant factor in its success. While arteriovenous fistulas are preferred, tunneled catheters serve as important alternatives, especially in challenging cases. Late-onset tunneled catheter dysfunction, often due to fibrin sheath formation, impedes hemodialysis efficiency. Streptokinase, a low-cost thrombolytic agent, has shown promise in resolving such complications, yet its efficacy in the Indian context remains unexplored. Methods We conducted a single-center interventional study at Mahatma Gandhi Mission (MGM) Hospital, Aurangabad, India, from May 2023 to October 2023. Ethical approval was obtained, and 10 eligible patients experiencing late-onset permanent tunnel catheter dysfunction were enrolled. Patients were treated with low-dose streptokinase, and outcomes were monitored for 60 days. Results Ten patients, evenly distributed by gender, participated, with a mean age of 48.2 ± 11.96 years. Diabetes was the predominant cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD) at 33% (3/10). All patients achieved the primary endpoint of blood flow rate (BFR) >300 ml/min post-streptokinase treatment, with an overall success rate of 100%. Group A had the highest average gain in catheter days (80.6 ± 7.59), followed by Group B (64 ± 1), while Group C showed variations in catheter days between the first (26.2 ± 6.8) and second insertion (32.5 ± 1.76). Eight patients maintained catheter patency during the 60-day follow-up. Adverse effects, primarily minor, were observed. The dosage rationale involved an eight-hour infusion at 4,000 units per hour. Conclusion Streptokinase emerges as cost-effective and efficacious for maintaining the patency of late-onset tunnel catheter dysfunction in resource-limited settings, particularly in younger patients. Caution is advised for older individuals with prolonged CKD.