In this episode, host Dr. Chris Beck interviews Dr. Jason Wagner about his experience with using the Hemodialysis Reliable Outflow (HeRO) graft and the Surfacer system for treating patients with end stage renal disease (ESRD) and limited vascular access options. Dr. Wagner is a practicing vascular surgeon in Sarasota, Florida.

Dr. Wagner explains the steps to implant a HeRO endovascular graft, how it provides a durable and reliable outflow for hemodialysis patients, and how it can be used and revised based on the patient’s needs. He also discusses the Surfacer system in obtaining central venous access, its advantages, and the necessity of preoperative imaging. Dr. Wagner emphasizes the critical role of continued learning in utilizing and optimizing these advanced dialysis solutions.

The suggestions and other information, which may include Merit products, are for the practitioner’s convenience and for general information purposes only. This information does not constitute medical or legal advice. Before using, refer to the Instructions for Use (IFU) for indications, contraindications, warnings, precautions, and directions for use.

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Merit HeRO Graft
https://www.merit.com/product/merit-hero-graft/

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SHOW NOTES

00:00 - Introduction
02:25 - Dr. Wagner’s Experience in Vascular Surgery
05:49 - Understanding End-Stage Vascular Access
08:52 - Introduction to the HeRO Graft
16:15 - Implantation of the HeRO Graft
28:38 - The Surfacer: A Game Changer in Vascular Access
31:49 - Potential Risks and Precautions with the Surfacer
33:38 - Using Both HeRO Graft and Surfacer
36:31 - Final Thoughts and Resources on Both Devices

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RESOURCES

Think Dialysis Access Course from Merit:
https://www.merit.com/education/courses/thinkaccess/

HeRO Graft: Indications, Technique, Outcomes, and Secondary Intervention:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8856774/

KDOQI Clinical Practice Guideline for Vascular Access: 2019 Update:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32778223/

The Surfacer:
https://bluegrassvascular.com/surfacer-2/