What value does the recirculation test using the crit-line method play in an access program now that the dialysis community has the ability to perfrom access blood flow via the crit-line or the transonics method?

Recirculation continues to play an important role in access management. However, it must be realized that ABF measurements offer far greater predictive value than recirculation measurements and are the "gold standard" for access management. There is generally no arguement that ABF tracking is simply the best way to monitor accesses.

That being said, the Crit-Line's quick (two minute) access recirculation measurement allows immediate confirmation of correct needle orientation and access patency.

The combination of both recirculation and ABF offered by the Crit-Line provides the clinic comprehensive, state of the art access management technology.

Additionally, the Crit-Line's exclusive ability to monitor blood volume(in addition to ABF and recirc) expands its access management capability by reducing the number of hypotensive episodes that can lead to premature access failure.