Ep. 414 HeRO Grafts in Dialysis: Techniques, Challenges, and Solutions with Dr. Jason Wagner

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.

---

CHECK OUT OUR SPONSOR

Merit HeRO Graft

https://www.merit.com/product/merit-hero-graft/

---

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

---

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/