Small Arteriovenous Anastomosis in Dialysis Access Creation: Establishing a Functional Vascular Access While Eliminating Steal Syndrome

The size selection of the arteriovenous (AV) anastomosis in dialysis access creation requires a careful balance to accomodate sufficient flow while minimizing the complication of steal syndrome. Steal syndrome affects up to 10% of patients after creation of dialysis access with sometimes devastating consequences. Conventional teaching recommends an 8-10 mm anastomosis. We sought to assess the efficacy of using a smaller(5-6 mm) anastomosis in new arteriovenous fistula creation.

Source: Journal of the American College of Surgeons - October 22, 2021 Category: Surgery Authors: Asma Mathlouthi, Michael Turner, Luis Cajas, Mahmoud Malas, Omar Al-Nouri Tags: Vascular Surgery Source Type: research