Abstract: Superior vena cava obstruction (SVCO) is one of the serious complications faced by hemodialysis patients. Central venous catheterization and dialysis catheter indwelling increase the incidence of SVCO.SVCO can lead to Superior vein cava syndrome (SVCS), which not only jeopardizes the availability of vascular access for hemodialysis, but can become a life-threatening emergency.With the prolonging of dialysis age, more and more clinicians pay attention to central venous catheters associated with SVCS. This article reviews the new progress in the pathogenesis, clinical evaluation, diagnosis and management of hemodialysis catheters associated SVCS.

Key words: hemodialysis, superior vena cava obstruction, superior vein cava syndrome