Technical aspects of percutaneous endovascular arteriovenous fistula creation with the Ellipsys® Vascular Access System. Preliminary results after 16 patients

Abstract

PurposeTechnical aspects are crucial for planning and performing endovascular arteriovenous fistula (AVF) creation. The Ellipsys® Vascular Access System represents a minimal invasive method for the creation of a proximal forearm fistula. This report summarizes the essential elements for AVF creation with the Ellipsys® Vascular Access System and investigates feasibility, efficacy, and safety procedures conducted on 16 patients.Materials and methodsWe performed a retrospective analysis of patients who underwent endovascular AVF creation with the Ellipsys® Vascular Access System between May 2020 and March 2022 at a tertiary referral center.ResultsThe median age was 67.5 years (47–86 years). The mean BMI was 31.4 kg/m2. AV fistula was created on 15/16 patients on their left arm. The technical success was 100%. The mean operation time was 24.2 min. There were no complications associated with the procedure. All patients were examined after 30 days (± 5 days). Primary patency after 30 days was 94% (15/16). The mean fistula flow was 681.1 mL/min and the mean AVF diameter was 6.1 mm. Thirteen out of 15 patients met the criteria for potential hemodialysis.ConclusionWith the Ellipsys Vascular Access System exist an additional possibility of an AV fistula creation. Based on above findings, the Ellipsys® Vascular Access System represents a feasible, safe, and effective method for AVF creation.