Augmented Balloon-assisted Maturation (aBAM) for Nonmaturing Dialysis Arteriovenous Fistula

Abstract

The surgically placed dialysis arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is considered by the Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (KDOQI)and the Fistula First Breakthrough Initiative to be the ideal choice for hemodialysis access. A significant number of newly placed AVFs either slowly or never adequately mature sufficiently to provide for adequate dialysis. The balloon-assisted maturation (BAM) procedure utilizes serial angioplasty to promote and accelerate AVF maturation. We present a minimally invasive AVF maturation technique utilizing angioplasty, stent-graft, and coil embolization. A 41-year-old white woman presented with an nonmaturing AVF with multiple venous outflow channels. An adequately functioning AVF was achieved after 2 treatments including coil embolization, angioplasty, and stent-graft placement. Adequate thrill and dialysis flow was achieved. Patient has done well during short-term follow-up without further intervention. BAM techniques can be an effective tool to help a dialysis patient achieve an adequately mature AVF. Additional vascular interventional techniques may be utilized to further improve clinical results. For the purpose of this report we call this technique "augmented balloon-assisted maturation," or aBAM.