Int J Angiol 2009; 18(3): 129-134
DOI: 10.1055/s-0031-1278339
Original Article

© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Selective two-stage basilic and cephalic vein transpositions can significantly improve the rate of fistula construction

Homayoun Hashemi1 , Michael J. Sheridan2 , Beverly Ford1
  • 1Department of Surgery, Inova Health System, Fairfax, Virginia, USA
  • 2Departments of Medicine and Psychiatry, Inova Health System, Fairfax, Virginia, USA
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
28 April 2011 (online)

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Modified proximal radial artery arteriovenous fistula (MPRAVF) can be used to improve the success and patency of basilic vein transposition (BVT) and cephalic vein transposition (CVT). In the present study, surgical experience with patients requiring a two-stage BVT or CVT using MPRAVF as the first stage was reviewed.

METHODS: All two-stage BVTs and CVTs performed between September 2004 and October 2006 were retrospectively reviewed. The median follow-up for this cohort was 23.7 months. One-year secondary patency of all transpositions was assessed.

RESULTS: Two hundred nineteen MPRAVFs were constructed. Twelve MPRAVFs failed and underwent a second procedure. Ninety- eight patients required no further procedures and their upper arm cephalic vein was matured and used for dialysis. Of 121 patients whose MPRAVFs were functioning but unusable due to their depth, 87 underwent BVT and 34 underwent CVT. The Kaplan-Meier one-year secondary patencies (± standard error) for BVTs and CVTs were 0.90±0.03 and 0.82±0.06, respectively. At one year, 87% of all transpositions remained patent.

CONCLUSIONS: Use of MPRAVF as the first stage of a two-stage BVT or CVT can significantly improve the patency rate of autogenous hemodialysis access placement beyond the 66% set forth by the Fistula First guidelines.