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A Murine Model of Hemodialysis Access-Related Hand Dysfunction
Published on: May 31, 2022
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.
Abstract:
Physical examination (PE) is considered the backbone before vascular access (VA) placement, during maturation period and for follow-up. However, it may be inadequate in identifying suitable vasculature, mainly in comorbid patients, or in detecting complications. This review highlights the advantages of ultrasound imaging to manage VA before placement, during maturation and follow-up. Furthermore, it analyses the future perspectives in evaluating early and late VA complications thank to the availability of multiparametric platforms, point of care of ultrasound, and portable/wireless systems. Technical improvements and low-cost systems should favor the widespread ultrasound-based VA surveillance programs. This significant turning point needs an adequate training of nephrologists and dialysis nurses and the standardization of exams, parameters, and procedures.
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