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Presentation Description
Institution: Canberra Health and Hospital Services - ACT, Australia
Arteriovenous fistula (AVF) maturation is crucial for ensuring effective hemodialysis. Literature indicates that intraoperative and early postoperative blood flow measurements can serve as reliable predictors of AVF maturation.
Intraoperative blood flow measurement using duplex ultrasound has shown significant predictive value for AVF maturation. Studies report that intraoperative flow rates exceeding 300 mL/min are associated with higher maturation rates, providing an immediate assessment of AVF viability. Early postoperative measurements, particularly within the first two weeks, also demonstrate strong predictive capabilities. This can allow for early intervention for those fistulas predicted to fail, or to plan for a different access option
The predictive accuracy of early blood flow measurements is supported by their ability to identify potential complications such as stenosis. By detecting these issues early, clinicians can implement timely interventions to enhance AVF maturation rates.
In conclusion, both intraoperative and early postoperative blood flow measurements are effective in predicting AVF maturation. Incorporating these assessments into clinical practice can significantly improve patient outcomes by enabling early detection and management of potential complications. Currently we are investigating the predictive capacity of immediate post-operative flow volume changes as predictors of fistula maturation, to help guide options for vascular access in haemodialysis.