Delayed superficialization of brachiobasilic fistula - Technique and initial experience

Hypothesis: Angioaccess procedures for dialysis have varied patency rates w ith frequent need for intervention. A superficialized arteriovenous brachio basilic fistula created as a 2-step procedure will have good long-term pate ncy with minimal complication. Design: Retrospective medical record review and patient interview. Setting: Tertiary referral university hospital. Patients: Twelve patients who underwent delayed superficialization of brach iobasilic fistula from September 1994 to April 2000. Main Outcome Measures: Patency of fistula for dialysis, and major and minor complications, including revisions. Results: Delayed superficialization of brachiobasilic fistula was performed in 12 patients. Fistulas have been used for a mean duration of 22.4 months (range, 10-59 months). Two patients required alternate access owing to thr ombosis of brachiobasilic fistula. Conclusions: The delayed superficialized brachiobasilic arteriovenous fistu la has a good initial patency rate with minimal complications. It should be considered early in patients if radiocephalic fistula is unavailable.