[Arteriovenous access for hemodialysis by vascular transplants]

Indications, surgical technic, late results and complications after creation of vascular accesses for chronic hemodialysis with vascular grafts are described. A fistula in the upper arm between the end of the relocated basilic vein and brachial artery most closely satisfied criteria for an vascular access. The autogenous saphenous vein was found to be an unsuitable arterio-venous fistula for chronic dialysis. Exposed polytetrafluroethylene (PTFE) can be used as a subcutaneous arteriovenous conduit if suitable vessels have been exhausted.