title: [Endovascular treatment of dysfunctional haemodialysis fistulas].
abstract: BACKGROUND
  A native AV-fistula (AVF) is the first choice of access for haemodialysis. An important complication is thrombosis, which typically results from an underlying stenosis. In 2001, we introduced a surveillance program measuring the access flow (Qa). At the same time percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) was introduced as the first choice of treatment.
  
  
  METHODS
  Qa was conducted in a routine monitoring programme. Flow rates below a preset value indicated patient referral for angiography, and if the angiography revealed a significant stenosis, PTA was performed. In the period from August 2001 to March 2004, 71 angioplasties were performed in 52 patients.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The technical success rate was 66/71 (93%). Clinically significant complications occurred at a rate of 3/71 (4%). The 2-year primary patency rate was 36% and the primary assisted patency rate was 67%.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  PTA in native haemodialysis fistulas was implemented. The rates of technical success, complications and patency were comparable with those recorded in the literature.
authors.affiliation: Kardiovaskulaert Afsnit X2021, Radiologisk Klinik, Diagnostisk Center, Rigshospitalet, DK-2100 København Ø. marc.hansen@rh.regionh.dk
authors.forename: Marc Allan
authors.initials: MA
authors.lastname: Hansen
authors.forename: Kåre
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Gibsholm-Madsen
authors.forename: Tom
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Christensen
authors.forename: Søren D
authors.initials: SD
authors.lastname: Ladefoged
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D015901:Angiography, Digital Subtraction; D015906:Angioplasty, Balloon, Coronary; D001166:Arteriovenous Shunt, Surgical / Q000009:adverse effects; D005260:Female; D005542:Forearm / Q000098:blood supply; D006083:Graft Occlusion, Vascular / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D006435:Renal Dialysis; D017131:Thrombectomy; D013927:Thrombosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014654:Vascular Patency; D055815:Young Adult