Color Doppler Ultrasonography in Prediction of Arteriovenous Fistula Maturation in Hemodialysis Patients

Role of Color Doppler Ultrasonography in Prediction of Arteriovenous Fistula Maturation and Its Complications in Hemodialysis Patients

The transplant is the definitive treatment of renal insufficiency, in our days. While waiting for it, the arteriovenous fistula surgery is standard procedure.

Ultrasound is the main method of diagnostic imaging, because of its low cost, noninvasive without ionizing radiation associated or iodized contrast.

Vascular procedures and their complications represent a major cause of morbidity hospitalization and cost for patients in hemodialysis .

Many fistulas do not mature appropriately for being used in dialysis. So,The early recognition through the ultrasound examination of problems in the arteriovenous fistula maturation or possible complications that may compromise their viability, offers the opportunity of correction or appropriate treatment .

Criteria for maturation after arteriovenous fistula creation:

• Vein diameter larger than 4 mm remote from the site of fistula.
• Vein located at a depth of <5 mm from skin surface.

Inclusion Criteria:

• 1) Patients Of Chronic Renal Failure With Newly Placed AVF. 2)Clinically Stable Patients For Assessment Of Maturation Of AVF. 3) Complaints Of Hand Pain Or Numbness Following Creation Of The Access.

Exclusion Criteria:

• 1)Previously Failed AV Fistulas. 2)Deformed Or Scarred Upper Limb.