Surgical Challenges In Managing Haemodialysis Arteriovenous Fistula Complications In Tertiary Care Centre: Our

Kritikalpa Behera1, Ajit Kumar Padhy1, Manju Gupta1

  • 1Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, India.

Insights

Arteriovenous (AV) fistula rupture is the primary reason for surgical takedown in hemodialysis patients. Early detection and proper fistula care can improve outcomes and prevent complications like limb ischemia.

Area of Science:

  • Vascular Surgery
  • Nephrology
  • Dialysis Access

Background:

  • Arteriovenous (AV) fistula creation is essential for hemodialysis in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients.
  • Fistula function impacts dialysis quality and patient survival.
  • Thrombosis and rupture are common reasons for AV fistula takedown.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the surgical management of AV fistula complications.
  • To analyze the experience with AV fistula takedown procedures.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective study of 29 patients undergoing AV fistula takedown.
  • Data collected over a 3-year period (May 2021 - May 2024).

Main Results:

  • Rupture was the most frequent cause for takedown (86.21%).
  • All 29 patients underwent AV fistula takedown.
  • Arterial ligation was performed in infected cases (75.86%); arterial continuity was maintained in non-infected cases.
  • No aneurysms, pseudoaneurysms, or limb ischemia were observed during follow-up (1 month - 3 years).

Conclusions:

  • Improper cannulation and inadequate fistula care lead to AV fistula complications.
  • Early detection and presentation improve limb salvage and reduce morbidity/mortality.
Abstract