Delayed superficialization of brachiobasilic fistula: technique and initial experience.
OBJECTIVE
Angioaccess procedures for dialysis have varied patency rates with frequent need for intervention. A superficialized arteriovenous brachiobasilic fistula created as a 2-step procedure will have good long-term patency with minimal complication.


METHODS
Retrospective medical record review and patient interview.


METHODS
Tertiary referral university hospital.


METHODS
Twelve patients who underwent delayed superficialization of brachiobasilic fistula from September 1994 to April 2000.


METHODS
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 thrombosis of brachiobasilic fistula.


CONCLUSIONS
The delayed superficialized brachiobasilic arteriovenous fistula has a good initial patency rate with minimal complications. It should be considered early in patients if radiocephalic fistula is unavailable.
Zielinski
C M
CM
Department of Surgery, Creighton University School of Medicine, 601 N 30th St, Omaha, NE 68131, USA. deepeter@creighton.edu
Mittal
S K
SK
Anderson
P
P
Cummings
J
J
Fenton
S
S
Reiland-Smith
J
J
Frock
J T
JT
Dunlay
R W
RW
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001132:Arm / Q000098:blood supply*; D001166:Arteriovenous Shunt, Surgical / Q000379:methods*; D001916:Brachial Artery / Q000601:surgery*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008499:Medical Records; D008875:Middle Aged; D006435:Renal Dialysis / Q000379:methods*; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013997:Time Factors; D014654:Vascular Patency; D014680:Veins / Q000601:surgery*