International Coalition Launched Fight Fibrin Sheath
A new initiative aims to improve catheter care for dialysis patients and others by tackling fibrous buildup.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Heart Disease
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An international coalition has launched the Fight Fibrin Sheath campaign to address the fibrous protein accumulation that causes central venous catheter failure. The initiative unites researchers, clinicians, and manufacturers to prioritize innovation for a condition that affects up to 100% of these devices within a week.
Why it matters
Fibrin sheath formation is the primary cause of catheter failure, yet it has remained an unaddressed clinical challenge for decades. Addressing this helps reduce complications for the 50-75% of dialysis patients who rely on these catheters to begin their treatment.
Clinical observations indicate that fibrin sheath, a fibrous protein build-up that restricts blood flow, develops in 80-100% of central venous catheters within one week of insertion. While first documented over 40 years ago, the exact threshold for preventing these formations is unknown.
The players
Vascular Access Society
An international professional organization dedicated to improving vascular access outcomes for patients.
BioInteractions Ltd
A medical device company specializing in biocompatible surface technologies for medical catheters.
The details
Fibrin sheath forms when the body reacts to a catheter by creating a layer of fibrin and collagen, which eventually restricts blood flow through the device. The new campaign seeks to coordinate research and industry innovation to mitigate this biological response, which stands as the dominant failure mode in long-term catheter care.
Timeline
September 22, 2026: The Fight Fibrin Sheath campaign officially launched.
More than 40 years ago: Fibrin sheath was first documented.
Health Landscape
For over 40 years, the medical community has recognized fibrin sheath as an inevitable consequence of catheter placement. This campaign represents a shift toward active innovation to address a failure mode that has long been accepted as a standard clinical hurdle.
If you or a family member are undergoing dialysis or require long-term catheter use, talk to your physician about the current management strategies used to prevent blood flow restrictions. Asking about the status of your catheter care and any new protocols being implemented can help you better manage your long-term treatment outcomes.
The takeaway
Fibrin sheath is the leading cause of catheter failure, affecting the vast majority of patients within days of insertion. Patients and caregivers should discuss catheter maintenance strategies with their care team to ensure the most effective prevention methods are being utilized.
Further reading
For more on preventing complications in cardiovascular care, visit our Heart Disease section.
More information
Find out more at the Fight Fibrin Sheath campaign information portal.
Source note: This article includes information reported by News-Medical.
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