'Extension technique': a modified technique for brachio-cephalic fistula to prevent dialysis access-associated steal...

To describe a modification in brachio-cephalic fistula formation for prevention of dialysis access-associated steal syndrome (DASS).

Short report.

From September 2001 to December 2003, 32 upper arm autogenous fistulae were formed using the 'extension technique' in patients at high-risk for developing DASS i.e. diabetics.

In this technique, the fistula is formed by anastomosing the median vein to the radial or ulnar artery just below the brachial bifurcation, thus preserving part of the blood supply to the hand, to prevent steal syndrome. All patients were evaluated for patency, adequacy of needling and the absence of steal symptoms.

Only 1 patient (3.1%) developed DASS. On investigation, he was found to have the fistula formed distal to the origin of a posterior branch with the bifurcation further distally. Symptoms improved with revision of the fistula. Thrombosis of the cephalic vein (6.2%), difficulty in needling (3.1%) and deep cephalic vein in upper arm that required superficialization (15.6%) were the other complications noted.

The 'extension technique' has been found to be a safe and effective procedure for prevention of DASS, with a good patency rate. Additional advantage of this technique is maturation of both cephalic and basilic veins.