The antecubital fossa fistula

Area of Science:

• Vascular Surgery
• Nephrology
• Dialysis Access

Background:

• Arteriovenous fistulas are crucial for chronic hemodialysis access.
• Proximal forearm fistulas are an alternative angioaccess option.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the outcomes and complications of proximal forearm arteriovenous fistulas.
• To evaluate the suitability of these fistulas as a primary or secondary access.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 19 patients undergoing proximal forearm arteriovenous fistula creation.
• Analysis of fistula functionality, complications, and need for intervention.

Main Results:

• Thirteen of 19 fistulas functioned adequately.
• Common complications included dislodged needles, arm edema, and hematomas (10 cases).
• Three patients experienced arterial steal syndrome, but none required fistula ligation.

Conclusions:

• Proximal forearm arteriovenous fistulas can provide adequate hemodialysis access.
• Complications are relatively common, necessitating careful monitoring.
• Consideration as a second-line access is recommended when distal forearm fistulas are not feasible.