BACKGROUND: Arteriovenous fistulae (AVF) are preferred for haemodialysis access, but maturation is unpredictable. RESULTS: Clinical examination alone is unreliable for AVF planning. Duplex ultrasonography may provide useful anatomical and physiological data to allow more accurate prediction of likely AVF success. CONCLUSION: Selective use of duplex ultrasonography appears to enhance AVF success rates, but there are insufficient data to recommend routine duplex screening of AVF candidates. Agreed vessel criteria are needed.
BACKGROUND:Arteriovenous fistulae (AVF) are preferred for haemodialysis access, but maturation is unpredictable. RESULTS: Clinical examination alone is unreliable for AVF planning. Duplex ultrasonography may provide useful anatomical and physiological data to allow more accurate prediction of likely AVF success. CONCLUSION: Selective use of duplex ultrasonography appears to enhance AVF success rates, but there are insufficient data to recommend routine duplex screening of AVF candidates. Agreed vessel criteria are needed.