Duplex ultrasound evaluation for dialysis access selection and maintenance: a practical guide

Detailed case directed history and examination is the mainstay of dialysis access modality selection, ie site and type of access, as well as for maintenance of dialysis access for longevity. As a logical step following history and physical examination, duplex ultrasound evaluation (DUE) is the most cost effective and non-invasive screening tool for evaluation for access placement and for assessment of an established access. Pre-operative vascular mapping allows selection of the optimal dialysis access modality and site. In established accesses, duplex ultrasound testing will diagnose the majority of vascular access complications and direct proper surgical or interventional radiology management. This review outlines a practical decision-making algorithm using DUE for choosing and managing the dialysis access.