Hemodialysis Arteriovenous Fistula Maturity: US Evaluation

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Abstract
PURPOSE: To compare various objective ultrasonographic (US) criteria for native arteriovenous fistula (AVF) maturation with subsequent fistula outcomes and clinical evaluation by experienced dialysis nurses. MATERIALS AND METHODS: US fistula evaluation results were analyzed retrospectively in 69 patients within 4 months after AVF placement; adequacy for dialysis was known in 54. Measurements included minimum venous diameter and blood flow rate. Experienced dialysis nurses examined 30 fistulas clinically. Predictors of fistula adequacy were analyzed with univariate and multivariate logistic regression. Mean fistula diameters and blood flow rates were compared by using analysis of variance or unpaired Student t tests. RESULTS: Fistula adequacy for dialysis doubled if the minimum venous diameter was 0.4 cm or greater (89% [24 of 27]) versus less than 0.4 cm (44% [12 of 27]; P < .001). Fistula adequacy for dialysis was nearly doubled if flow volume was 500 mL/min or greater (84% [26 of 31]) versus less than 5...