Abstract 15479: High Output Cardiac Failure Associated With Arteriovenous Fistula

Abstract

Introduction: High output heart failure (HOHF) secondary to arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is known. However, having a high index of suspicion for the latter when encountering diuretic resistance in patients with a remote history of hemodialysis is key. Case A 68-year-old female with a history of kidney transplant in 2012 with no recent dialysis, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, pulmonary hypertension, heart failure with reduced ejection fraction, and atrial fibrillation presented with decompensated heart failure and acute kidney injury (AKI). Physical exam was remarkable for anasarca, and no apparent fistulas were noted. She was started on milrinone and furosemide drips. Clinical decision making Initial transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) revealed an ejection fraction (EF) of 20%, which declined from 35%, along with new mitral and tricuspid regurgitation. Her hospitalization was complicated by altered mental status, worsening AKI requiring hemodialysis, atrial fibrillation with rapid ventricular response, and resistance to multiple diuretics and after-load reduction combinations. Diuretics and inotropic support were discontinued due to worsening clinical status. Given concerns for valvular disease, a transesophageal echocardiogram was obtained, confirming moderate to severe mitral and tricuspid valve regurgitation, bi-atrial enlargement, and reduced biventricular function. However, the patient was not clinically optimized for Mitra-clip. Further hemodynamics and volume status assessment with RHC revealed a mean PAP 44, PCWP 26, and CO 11 L/min. RHC results raised suspicion for HOHF. Interestingly, the patient was noted to have a right inguinal surgical scar with a palpable thrill, and an arteriovenous graft duplex revealed high volume flow. The patient underwent ligation of the right inguinal fistula. Repeat TTE two weeks post AVF ligation showed EF of 40% and improved functional mitral and tricuspid valve regurgitation. The patient ultimately was taken off hemodialysis and had clinically improved heart failure. GDMT was optimized, and outpatient evaluation for mitral valve intervention was scheduled. Conclusion Longstanding AVF can cause HOHF. Early index of suspicion is warranted for AVF ligation as it results in rapid EF recovery.