Chronic haemodialysis using saphenous vein fistulae

Since 1969 four leg fistulae and 14 arm fistulae using the saphenous vein have been constructed in chronic haemodialysis patients. The operative procedures are described and the results show that these fistulae are an excellent alternative when the construction of Cimino-Brescia fistulae becomes impossible. Of the 14 arm fistulae, nine are still patent and in use, three have thrombosed and two patients have died of unrelated causes with the fistulae intact.