[Changes induced by temporary compression of A-V fistula on some polygraphic parameters in chronic hemodialysis...

In order to evaluate the influence of an arterio-venous fistula on cardiac function, a non-invasive study was conducted in thirty-three patients before and during compression of the fistula. Significant changes of PEP/LVET ratio and ITD were observed by means of such a technique only in patients with proximal (forearm) fistula; on the contrary no significant change were noted in those with distal (radiocephalic) a-v fistula. A systolic apical or precordial murmur, that was present in the control state in ten patients, was abolished or reduced in intensity in seven of them. Therefore suppression of blood flow through the shunt appears to affect the systolic time intervals in patients with proximal forearm fistula.