Forearm Fistula Research Articles

Endovascular Thrombectomy of Arteriovenous Dialysis Access: A Feasible Treatment?

There is no single best treatment for arteriovenous vascular access thrombosis, with comparable patency rates for both surgical and endovascular treatment. This study aims to evaluate the results of endovascular thrombectomy in our center and analyze the patency rates in different groups. We retrospectively selected patients referred to our vascular access treatment unit due to arteriovenous access thrombosis from June 2017 to February 2022. All patients were submitted to endovascular manual thromboaspiration. Patient demographic data, comorbidities and clinical data were collected from medical records for further analysis. Out of the 96 patients selected, 45 (47%) had AV grafts and 51 (53%) had AV fistulas. The mean age was 74 (±15) years and 54% were males. The overall success rate of interventions was 85.4% (n = 82), while the reintervention rate stood at 59.8% (n = 49). AV grafts exhibited superior secondary patency compared to AV fistulas (92.4% vs. 78.0% and 85.3% vs. 74.1% at 6 and 12 months, respectively; p = 0.047). Forearm fistulas demonstrated enhanced primary patency (72.7% vs. 41.5% and 58.2% vs. 23.1% at 6 and 12 months, respectively; p = 0.017), better assisted primary patency (81.8% vs. 55.8% and 81.8% vs. 42.0% at 6 and 12 months, respectively; p = 0.025), and a lower reintervention rate (27.3% vs. 63.3%; p = 0.040) compared to upper arm fistulas. Endovascular manual thromboaspiration seems to be an alternative technique for salvaging thrombosed vascular accesses. Forearm fistulas had the best assisted primary patency, which consolidates the rationale of giving primacy to its construction over other options.

Zero upper arm hemodialysis fistulas: utopian or realistic goal?

Although distal native fistula is the best first-line vascular access (VA), upper arm fistula (UAF) prevalence is increasing worldwide, except in Japan. Our previous survey on 50% of hemodialysis patients (HP) revealed a prevalence of UAF of less than 5%, which is lower than the findings published by the DOPPS 5 study in our country. We analyzed the VA prevalence on 100% of HPs from our department. In December 2021, we investigated the prevalence of vascular access of 1295 hemodialysis patients from 17 dialysis factories. VAs were classified according to location into distal forearm fistula (DFF), middle-proximal forearm fistula (MPFF), and UAF. The department manages VA using a Hub and Spoke model. The hub performs simple and complex VA including Graft placement, the Percutaneous Transluminal Angioplasty (PTA) of fistulas and central stenosis, and the surgical and endovascular rescue of thrombosed or stenotic fistulas. The spokes perform mainly simple DFFs. The mean age of 1295 HP (35% females and 21% diabetics) was 69 ± 12.4 years; 506 (39%) were over 75 years old. The prevalence of DFF, MPFF, UAF, GRAFT, and CVC was 63.5%, 10.1%, 3%, 0.7%, and 22.5%, respectively. Data comparison between our two surveys revealed a lower MPFF, UAF, and GRAFT prevalence and increased CVC prevalence. Patients aged 75 years or older, women, and diabetics showed a higher frequency of CVC and a lower prevalence of DFF. The findings confirm the low prevalence of UAF found in our prior survey, demonstrating that UAFs can be reduced to 5% or less, as seen in Japanese experience.

Guideline recommendations on minimal blood vessel diameters and arteriovenous fistula outcomes.

Clinical guidelines provide recommendations on the minimal blood vessel diameters required for arteriovenous fistula creation but the evidence for these recommendations is limited. We compared vascular access outcomes of fistulas created in agreement with the ESVS Clinical Practice Guidelines (i.e. arteries and veins >2 mm for forearm fistulas and >3 mm for upper arm fistulas) with fistulas created outside these recommendations. The multicenter Shunt Simulation Study cohort contains 211 hemodialysis patients who received a first radiocephalic, brachiocephalic, or brachiobasilic fistula before publication of the ESVS Clinical Practice Guidelines. All patients had preoperative duplex ultrasound measurements according to a standardized protocol. Outcomes included duplex ultrasound findings at 6 weeks after surgery, vascular access function, and intervention rates until 1 year after surgery. In 55% of patients, fistulas were created in agreement with the ESVS Clinical Practice Guidelines recommendations on minimal blood vessel diameters. Concordance with the guideline recommendations was more frequent for forearm fistulas than for upper arm fistulas (65% vs 46%, p = 0.01). In the entire cohort, agreement with the guideline recommendations was not associated with an increased proportion of functional vascular accesses (70% vs 66% for fistulas created within and outside guideline recommendations, respectively; p = 0.61) or with decreased access-related intervention rates (1.45 vs 1.68 per patient-year, p = 0.20). In forearm fistulas, however, only 52% of arteriovenous fistulas created outside these recommendations developed into a timely functional vascular access. Whereas upper arm arteriovenous fistulas with preoperative blood vessel diameters <3 mm had similar vascular access function as fistulas created with larger blood vessels, forearm arteriovenous fistulas with preoperative blood vessel diameters <2 mm had poor clinical outcomes. These results support that clinical decision-making should be guided by an individual approach.

#5446 A COHORT OF DIALYSIS PATIENTS WITH LOW PREVALENCE OF UPPER ARM FISTULAS

Abstract Background and Aims International guidelines encourage the use of distal native fistula (AVF) which is the best first-line vascular access (VA). But, despite these indications, all over the world, except for Japan, the prevalence of upper arm fistula (UAF) is dramatically increasing. Previous surveys in our department included about 50% of Haemodialysis patients (HP) and showed prevalence of UAFs less then 5%–very low, if compared with those of our country, reported by DOPPS 5 study. We decided to analyse 100% of HP in our department, in order to confirm or exclude the low prevalence of UAF. Method Puglia, southern east of Italy, has 1.4 millions inhabitants, of which 1365 need dialysis; 1295 on haemodialysis in 17 different centers and 70 on peritoneal dialysis. The department is organized on a Hub and Spoke model for VA management (Fig. 1). Hub performs simple and complex AVFs, Graft, PTA of non matured or stenotic fistulas, PTA of central stenosis, and surgical rescue of thrombosed or stenotic fistulas. Our four spokes perform mainly simple distal forearm fistula (DFF). In December 2021 we collected datas of VA prevalence of all 1295 HP. The AVFs were classified, according to their anatomical site, in DFF, mean-proximal forearm fistula (MPFF) and UAF. Results The average age of 1295 HP was 69 ± 14,65% yo (65% males and 21% diabetics) and 458 of them (35%) where more than 75 yo. The prevalence of DFF, MPFF, UAF, GRAFT and CVC was 63.5%, 10.1%, 3%, 0.7%, 22.5% respectively (fig. 2). Patients aged ≥75 years, women and diabetics showed a higher prevalence of CVC and a lower prevalence of DFF. Conclusion Data collected on all patients confirm the low prevalence of UAF detected in the previous surveys -which involved only a part of haemodialysis patients. Zero upper arm fistulas is an utopian goal, but it seems possible to reduce the prevalence of proximal fistulas to 5% or less as the Japanese experience has showed.

Association of Pre and Perioperative Vein Mapping with Hemodialysis Access Characteristics and Outcomes

Association of Pre and Perioperative Vein Mapping with Hemodialysis Access Characteristics and Outcomes

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

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.

Forearm Arteriovenous Fistula Maturation Delay due to Juxta-Anastomotic Stenosis: Role of Percutaneous Angioplasty

Introduction: Arteriovenous fistula is the optimal vascular access for hemodialysis as it has the best long-term patency rate and the lowest complication rate. Although we are still lacking consensus, surgery has been advocated as the best treatment option for maturation delay. We proposed to evaluate the results of endovascular approach of arteriovenous fistula’s maturation delay in our hospital. Methods: We conducted a retrospective study, selecting patients referred to our diagnostic and therapeutic angiography unit due to arteriovenous fistula delayed maturation, between April 2017 and June 2020. Results: Thirty-four patients were referred to our center due to maturation delay, of which six (17.7%) were excluded as the diagnosis was not confirmed and six (17.7%) because the lesions were not suitable for percutaneous angioplasty. The other 22 patients (64.7%) were subjected to percutaneous endovascular treatment. Mean age was 67.3 ± 13.8 years. Eighteen patients (81.8%) had maturation delay due to peri-anastomotic stenosis; 12 (66.7%) were forearm fistulas (all radio-cephalic). Mean follow-up time was 21.2 ± 11.2 months. Eleven (91.7%) fistulas were salvaged, although four (33.3%) needed reintervention. Primary and assisted primary patencies at 6 and 12 months were 66.7% vs 91.7% and 58.3% vs 91.7%, respectively. Conclusion: Our results point out that endovascular treatment is a good treatment option for maturation delay of forearm arteriovenous fistulas due to juxta-anastomotic stenosis. Even though surgical treatment appears to have better primary patency, a step-by-step approach seems to be a valid strategy, as our assisted primary patency shows.

A clinical randomized controlled trial: moxibustion at Laogong interval with Panax notoginseng promoted the maturation of arteriovenous fistulae

BackgroundWe aim to study the clinical effect of moxibustion at Laogong interval with Panax notoginseng on the short-term maturation and long-term patency of arteriovenous fistula.MethodsSeventy-four pre-dialysis uremic patients who received distal forearm radial-cephalic fistula creations were enrolled in this study and randomly assigned to the control group and experimental group. After arteriovenous fistula creations, the control group underwent handgrip exercise, and the experimental group received moxibustion at Laogong acupoint interval with Panax notoginseng. Both groups received a 12-week treatment and were followed up for 24 weeks in all at the following time points: before creations and 2, 4, 8, 12, 24 weeks after creations. The diameter of anastomosis, the diameter and outflow of draining-veins 5 cm above anastomosis, the diameter and outflow of brachial arteries evaluated the maturation and patency of arteriovenous fistula. Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay determined serum levels of endothelin and nitric oxide.ResultsThe maturity rate in the experimental group was significantly higher than that in the control group at 4 weeks after arteriovenous fistula creations (P = 0.048). The diameter of anastomosis, the diameter of draining veins, and the blood flow of draining veins increased in both groups during the whole 24 weeks. The diameter and blood flow of brachial arteries ascended in both groups during the previous 12 weeks. Compared with the control group, moxibustion at Laogong interval with Panax notoginseng significantly improved the value of the diameter of draining-veins (P = 0.016), the blood flow of draining-veins (P = 0.015), the diameter of brachial arteries (P < 0.001), and the blood flow of brachial arteries (P = 0. 012) at 2 weeks, and enhanced the blood flow of draining-veins (P = 0.029) and brachial arteries (P < 0.001) at 12 weeks. Serum levels of endothelin were significantly lower (P = 0.047), and serum levels of nitric oxide were markedly higher (P < 0.001) in the experimental group than that in the control group at 2 weeks after creations.ConclusionsMoxibustion at Laogong interval with Panax notoginseng was non-invasive and promoted the maturation of arteriovenous fistula at 4 weeks after creations. However, its long-term beneficial effect on patency at 24 weeks after creations was not significant.Trial registration Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, No. ChiCTR1900024042. Registered, http://www.chictr.org.cn/index.aspx

Atypical presentation of fistula dysfunction due to brachial arterial embolization mimicking stroke.

Vascular access thrombosis is an important complication with great impact on access patency and, consequently, on a patient's quality of life and survival. We report the case of a 73-year-old woman with chronic kidney disease on hemodialysis with a radiocephalic arteriovenous fistula on the right arm that was brought to the emergency department with decreased strength in her right arm, ipsilateral hypoesthesia and facial hemi-hypoesthesia. The patient was given a brain computed tomographic scan that did not confirm suspicion of stroke. On re-examination, the patient had new-onset pain at arteriovenous fistula level, and her right arm was cold and pale. The nephrology department was called for arteriovenous fistula evaluation. On physical examination, her forearm fistula had a decreased thrill and arm elevation exacerbated its paleness. A bedside ultrasound was performed for arteriovenous fistula assessment. Doppler ultrasound revealed: partial thrombosis at brachial bifurcation, a flow of 80-105 mL/min at brachial artery level and a radial artery with a damped waveform. Anastomosis and draining vein were permeable. In this case, the diagnosis of acute embolic brachial artery occlusion was made by a fast bedside ultrasound evaluation. The patient underwent thromboembolectomy with Fogarty technique, recovering fistula thrill, radial and cubital pulses. Thromboembolism of the fistula feeding artery is a rare cause of vascular access thrombosis and it is rarely mentioned in the literature. In this report, failure to recognize the upper limb ischemia would have led to delayed treatment, potentially resulting in the fistula's complete thrombosis and further limb ischemia. We highlight the importance of a diagnosis method like Doppler ultrasound, which allows for rapid evaluation at the patient's bedside.

Assessment of Proximal Radio-median Cubital/Radio-Cephalic Arterio-venous Fistula

The present study aims to conducted the Assessment of Proximal radio-median cubital/radio-cephalic Arterio-venous Fistula. Arterio-venous Fistula is life line for long-term hemodialysis for end stage renal disease patients. The order of preference as per National Kidney Foundation/ Kidney Disease Out Come Quality Initiative (KDOQI) is distal Radio Cephalic fistula is considered as gold standard followed by elbow Brachio Cephalic Fistula, transposed Brachio-Basilic Fistula, forearm arterio-venous graft. This is a cross sectional-prospective interventional study, 05/2017 to 04/2019, JNMC, Wardha, MH, with sample size of 66 cases. Out of 66 cases 25 % patients had diabetes mellitus, 48% cases were suffering from chronic glomerulonephritis, 15 % cases were suffering hypertension, 6 % cases had COPD and another 6 % cases had some cardiovascular disease. About 54 % cases had previous access failure. In our study the mean flow volume for AV fistula in proximal forearm was 485± 291 ml/minon postoperative day1, 695 ± 298 on postoperative day 7 and 755± 347 ml/min. Overall postoperative complications in 12% cases was reported in our case study though Yilmiz et al reported postoperative complications in 15% cases.

Ulnar-Basilic Arteriovenous Fistula for Hemodialysis Access: Utility as the "Second Procedure" after Radio Cephalic Fistula.

Objectives: As per standard guidelines, the recommended order of arteriovenous fistula (AVF) creation for hemodialysis (HD) access is radiocephalic (RC), followed by proximal elbow fistulas and arteriovenous graft. Although ulnar-basilic (UB) fistula has been an alternative to RC-AVF, still this procedure searches clear recommendations. We present here our experience on UB-AVF as the preferred “second procedure” instead of proximal fistula after the RC-AVF.Methods: Forty-two UB-AVF were created in nonfeasible and failed RC-AVF cases between 2016 and 2018. They were reviewed retrospectively and outcomes were compared with 480 RC-AVF constructed within the same period.Results: The primary patency at 18 months was 73.8%, 69.6% and mean maturation time was 33.7±6.6 days, 32.1±4.7 days for UB-AVF and RC-AVF respectively (p>0.05).Conclusion: Our altered order of preference enabled us to create all the first-time fistula in the distal forearm, providing all the advantages of distal fistula like RC-AVF and avoiding proximal fistula, improved patient convenience and short-term benefit. In an inference that may be used for references and needs support from a larger sample and longer duration study from other centers, UB-AVF may be considered as the second option after RC-AVF depending on the clinical scenario.

Use of platelet concentrate gel in second-intention wound healing: a case\xa0report

BackgroundWound healing is a complex and dynamic process. Healing of acute and chronic wounds can be impaired by patient factors (that is, comorbidities) and/or wound factors (that is, infection). Regenerative medicine products, such as autologous/homologous platelet-rich plasma gel, may speed up the healing process. Autologous/homologous platelet-rich plasma is an advanced wound therapy used for hard-to-heal acute and chronic wounds. The cytokines and growth factors contained in platelet-rich plasma play a crucial role in the healing process.Case presentationA 61-year-old Caucasian male patient, suffering from mental retardation following meningitis, with a transplanted kidney due to prior renal impairment, and under immunosuppressant therapy, was submitted to aneurysmectomy of his proximal left forearm arteriovenous fistula. A few days later, the patient came to our attention with substantial blood loss from the surgical site. The wound presented no signs of healing, and after fistula reparation and considering persistent infection of the surgical site (by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus), surgeons decided for second-intention healing. To favor healing, 10 mL homologous platelet concentrate gel was sequentially applied. After each application, wound was covered with nonadherent antiseptic dressing. After only seven applications of homologous platelet concentrate gel, wound completely recovered and no amputation was necessary.ConclusionsTopical application of homologous platelet-rich plasma gel in healing wound shows beneficial results in wound size reduction and induces granulation tissue formation. Platelet-rich plasma could be a safe and cost-effective treatment for managing the cutaneous wound healing process to shorten the recovery period and thereby improve patient quality of life.

Analyses of hemodialysis arteriovenous fistula geometric configuration and its associations with maturation and reintervention

Analyses of hemodialysis arteriovenous fistula geometric configuration and its associations with maturation and reintervention

P1360ARTERIOVENOUS FISTULA MATURATION DELAY - ENDOVASCULAR TREATMENT IS A VALID APPROACH

Abstract Background and Aims Arteriovenous fistula is the optimal vascular access for hemodialysis as it has the best long-term patency rate and the lowest complication rate among hemodialysis vascular accesses. However, its occasional delayed maturation poses a challenge. Surgery has been advocated as the best treatment option. We proposed to evaluate the results of endovascular approach of arteriovenous fistula’s maturation delay in our hospital. Method We conducted a retrospective study, selecting patients referenced to our diagnostic and therapeutic angiography unit due to arteriovenous fistula delayed maturation, between April 2017 and October 2019. Physical examination and echography were used to confirm arteriovenous fistula delayed maturation. Results Thirty patients were referenced. Nine were excluded as maturation delay was not confirmed. Three patients were excluded due to extensive outflow stenosis since they were proposed to new vascular access creation. The other 18 patients were subjected to percutaneous endovascular treatment. Mean patient’s age was 65 years old. Twelve patients (66,7%) had forearm fistulas and the remaining (33,3%) had arm fistulas. Fourteen patients (77,7%) had maturation delay due to peri-anastomotic stenosis. The mean follow-up time was 14 months, (minimum - 3 months; maximum - 33 months). Seventeen fistulas (94,4%) were salvaged, although 3 (16,7%) needed a second intervention. Primary and secondary patencies at 3, 6 and 12 months were 77,8% vs. 94,4%, 69,2% vs. 92,3% and 75% vs. 100%, respectively. Arm fistulas had 83,3% of primary and secondary patencies. Forearm fistula’s primary and secondary patencies were 66,7% vs. 91,6%, 57,1% vs. 100% and 60% vs. 100%, at 3, 6 and 12 months, respectively. When maturation failure was due to peri-anastomotic stenosis, primary and secondary patencies were 71,4% vs. 92,9%, 66,7% vs. 100% and 66,7% vs. 100% at 3, 6 and 12 months, respectively. Conclusion Even though we are still lacking consensus about the best treatment option for fistula’s maturation delay, current guidelines suggest that, at least in delayed maturation due to peri-anastomotic stenosis, surgery may be the best treatment. Our results point out that endovascular treatment is a good treatment option for arteriovenous fistulas with maturation delay, mainly in the arm fistulas. Even though surgical treatment appears to have better primary patency, a step by step approach seems to be a valid approach, as our secondary patency shows.

P1333PULSE WAVE ANALYSIS UNDER THE CONDITIONS OF HIGH ARTERIAL FLOW: ASSESSMENT OF SHUNT FUNCTION AND REACTIVE HYPEREMIA

Abstract Background and Aims Fistula-creation as well as reactive hyperaemia increase local arterial blood flow. We wanted to analyse the impact of these haemodynamic changes on pulse wave (PW) morphology to assess fistula- and endothelial function. Method We conducted a clinical pilot study including 56 patients with functioning forearm fistula. PW morphology in the A. brachialis was assessed tonometrically at the non-fistula and fistula arm using the SpygmoCor® device. We also performed a PW analysis on the non-fistula arm under the condition of reactive hyperaemia (possible in 43 patients). Duplex-sonography was used as a complementary and reference method. Results In comparison to measurements under physiologic conditions, both the fistula arm (a) and the non-fistula arm with reactive hyperemia (b) showed marked differences in the pulse wave morphology (figure). The changes in PW morphology were most prominent in the area of the diacrotic notch and could be assessed as the differences of the sum of the mean slope (Δλ in mmHg/ms) between the diacrotic notch and the main preceding and subsequent inflexion point. Measurement with duplex-sonography confirmed increased peak blood flow velocity in the arteria brachialis (ΔVmax in cm/s) under both conditions. Statistical significance could be proved for Δλ and for ΔVmax (table). Finally, bivariate regression analysis revealed a correlation of Δλ with ΔVmax (figure; c: p=0.001 and r=-0,483 for interarm-differences of the fistula and non-fistula arm; d: p= 0.030 and r=-0.343 for the differences between the physiologic state and reactive hyperaemia at the non-fistula arm). Conclusion PW analysis under high flow conditions has the potential to be a new useful clinical tool in nephrology to monitor fistula- as well as endothelial function assessed by reactive hyperaemia. The findings should be verified in a trial with clinical endpoints.

Can Native Arteriovenous Fistula Be Safely Made by Trainees? Comparison of Results of Native Arteriovenous Fistula for Vascular Access Made by Trainees with that by Consultant

Native arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is the preferred mode of vascular access for hemodialysis. Few studies suggest that the results of AVF are influenced by the experience of the operating surgeons. The present study compares the results of the AVF surgery performed by the surgical trainees with consultant. The retrospective data of the patient operated during the period of January to December 2016 was evaluated. The primary success rate and functional status of the AVF at 1 year were compared in the AVFs created by consultant and trainees. A total of 111 patients who underwent AVF were included in the study. Out of these, 47 (41%) were forearm fistulas (radiocephalic) and 64 (59%) were upper arm fistulas. Out of the total, 57 were operated by consultant and 54 were operated by trainees. The distribution of age, gender, diabetes, and type of fistulas was similar in the two groups. The primary success was established in 91 AVF (81.9%). The failure to use the fistula for the dialysis made by trainee was 10/54 (18.5%) and 10/57 (17.5%) by consultant. There was no statistical difference in the result of AVF made by trainees and consultants (p = 0.89, chi-square test). AVFs can be safely made by resident surgeons as a part of clinical training program. This approach may be evaluated in other centers, which could train resident surgeons in general surgery in microvascular surgery and thereby reducing the waiting period for AVF creation.

Snuffbox arteriovenous fistulas have similar outcomes and patency as wrist arteriovenous fistulas

Snuffbox arteriovenous fistulas have similar outcomes and patency as wrist arteriovenous fistulas

A novel retroauricular fixed port for hemodialysis: surgical procedure and preliminary results of the clinical investigation

Background: Inspired by bone conduction implants, which have a low infection rate, a bone-anchored port (BAP) system for hemodialysis was designed.Objectives: To demonstrate the surgical procedure for the BAP and to present preliminary results of the clinical investigation.Materials and Methods: Patients with end-stage renal disease and contraindications for an arteriovenous forearm fistula were recruited for BAP implantation. A workflow specifically developed for implantation was followed. Postoperative evolution, the dialysis procedure, the functionality of the implant, and signs of infection were monitored.Results: So far, five patients have been implanted with the BAP system. Hemodialysis with the BAP was unproblematic in all five patients, on average starting from the 9th day after implantation (range 2 to 15 days). Up to now, 1789 cumulative patient days (average 355 days, range 154 to 448 days) have been recorded. One patient died 14 months after implantation, from a cardiac arrest unrelated to the system. Dialysis was painless, and no catheter-related infections have occurred.Conclusion: BAP implantation can be safely performed but requires an interdisciplinary team. No infections related to the device have occurred.Significance: The presented system is a promising addition to the choices of vascular accesses for hemodialysis patients.

Outcome of endovascular salvage of immature hemodialysis arteriovenous fistulas.

To assess the causes of immature hemodialysis arteriovenous fistula and the outcome of endovascular salvage. The outcome of 207 endovascular salvage procedures in 139 patients after the first successful cannulation was analyzed retrospectively from January 2011 to December 2017 in the Catholic University of Korea, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital. Of the 139 patients aged 62 ± 13 years, 45% were women, 59% had diabetes, and 71% were maintained on hemodialysis using central venous catheters. Mean interval between arteriovenous fistula creation and referral to angiography was 87 ± 63 days. While inflow stenosis (54.4%) was the most common cause of immature forearm fistulas (n = 76), both inflow (38.6%) and mixed stenosis (35.1%) were the main causes of immature upper arm fistulas (n = 63). Endovascular salvage procedures included percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (n = 174) and accessory vein obliteration (n = 30). The overall technical and clinical success rates were 97% and 93.4%, respectively. Mean interval between endovascular procedure and the first successful cannulation of the fistula was 28 ± 35 days. At 3, 6, and 12 months following the first successful cannulation, the primary patency rates were 81%, 69.5%, and 57.6%, respectively, and the secondary patency rates were 97.2%, 96%, and 94.8%, respectively. Mixed stenosis was the only determinant of secondary patency rate of immature arteriovenous fistula (hazard ratio = 6.334, confidence interval = 1.364-29.423, p = 0.018), and patients with mixed stenosis had poorer access outcomes (p = 0.016). Immature arteriovenous fistulas can be successfully salvaged by aggressive and timely endovascular intervention. Mixed stenosis is associated with poor access outcomes.

Upper arm basilic vein elevation as a solution for forearm ulnar-basilic arteriovenous fistulae with cannulation problems.

Ulnar-basilic arteriovenous fistula is an alternative option when a radiocephalic arteriovenous fistula is not feasible. We review our technique of basilic vein transposition in the upper arm for difficult to puncture forearm ulnar-basilic non-transposed arteriovenous fistulae. Three patients were referred for forearm ulnar-basilic arteriovenous fistulae with difficult cannulation where the forearm basilic vein was left in situ (non-transposed). Surgeon performed ultrasound examination confirmed a patent arteriovenous fistula with adequate diameter and flow, draining to the basilic vein in the forearm and into the upper arm. Recurrent new and resolving hematomas were present surrounding the forearm basilic vein resulting from difficult cannulation issues and problems maintaining needle position due the posterior-medial ulnar-basilic arteriovenous fistula position and mobility of the non-transposed forearm basilic vein. A basilic vein transposition elevation procedure was performed in the upper arm starting at the level of the elbow to a few centimeters below the axilla. Branches of the dilated basilic vein were ligated, the median cutaneous nerve was preserved, and the vein was elevated from its native position to a superficial and anterior location. Although difficult, dialysis access had been continued in the forearm during a brief period and none required catheter placement. Reliable dialysis access was successfully initiated using the newly transposed basilic vein in the upper arm 3-4 weeks after the procedure, maintaining arterial inflow based on the original ulnar-basilic arteriovenous fistula anastomosis at the wrist. None of the patients required further interventions with follow-up of 8, 15, and 22 months.