Current role of ultrasound in hemodialysis access evaluation

Meola Mario1, Jose Ibeas2, Jan Malik3

  • 1Institute of Life sciences, Department of Internal Medicine, Sant'Anna School of Advanced Studies, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.

Insights

Physical examination for vascular access (VA) can be insufficient. Ultrasound imaging offers superior management and complication detection for VA, improving patient care and surveillance programs.

Area of Science:

  • Nephrology
  • Vascular Surgery
  • Medical Imaging

Background:

  • Physical examination is crucial for vascular access (VA) management but has limitations.
  • Identifying suitable vasculature and detecting complications can be challenging, especially in comorbid patients.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the advantages of ultrasound imaging in managing vascular access.
  • To explore future perspectives of ultrasound in evaluating vascular access complications.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current literature on ultrasound in vascular access.
  • Analysis of emerging ultrasound technologies and their applications.

Main Results:

  • Ultrasound imaging enhances VA management before placement, during maturation, and for follow-up.
  • Multiparametric platforms and portable systems offer new avenues for early and late complication evaluation.

Conclusions:

  • Ultrasound-based VA surveillance programs are promising.
  • Widespread adoption requires adequate training for healthcare professionals and standardization of procedures.

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