Doppler ultrasonography evaluation in hemodialysis patients prior to arteriovenous fistula surgery: Our surgical experience

Patients and methods: Between January 2012 and October 2015, a total of 49 patients who were admitted to our center for arteriovenous fistula surgery were included in the study. In addition to physical examination, Doppler ultrasonography was routinely performed in all patients. The arteriovenous fistulas were evaluated in terms of maturation and six-month patency rates. In an external center, Doppler ultrasonography was selectively performed preoperatively and the operative data and results of the arteriovenous fistulas which were created using the same surgical technique were compared.

Results: The arteriovenous fistulas formed by Doppler ultrasonography before surgery performed by the surgeon had a maturation rate of 81% and a six-month patency rate of 77%. These rates were similar to the results of selective Doppler ultrasonography which was performed in the external center.

Conclusion: Preoperative Doppler ultrasonographic evaluation of the vascular structures in patients in whom an arteriovenous fistula is to be created can be performed safely by the surgeon with low cost and time-saving advantages.