Efficient haemodialysis despite complete central venous thrombosis

Two cases with a fully functional haemodialysis access, in spite of complete thrombotic occlusion of the ipsilateral subclavian and/or brachiocephalic vein are reported. The coincidentally detected complete venous occlusions may indicate that occult venous stenosis or thrombosis is more frequent than generally assumed. In order to avoid deterioration of the haemodynamic situation interventions may be withheld unless clinical problems related to a diminished outflow occur.