Basilic Vein Transposition in the Forearm for Secondary Arteriovenous Fistula. (April 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Glowinski, Jerzy; Glowinska, Irena; Malyszko, Jolanta; Gacko, Marek
• Is Part Of: Angiology. Volume 65:Number 4(2014)
• Page Start: 330
• Page End: 332
• Publication Date: 2014-04
• Subjects: vascular access -- arteriovenous fistula -- basilic vein -- hemodialysis; Blood-vessels -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Cardiovascular system -- Diseases -- Periodicals; 616.13005
• DOI: 10.1177/0003319713484790
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0003-3197

Abstract

Radiocephalic (RC) fistulae remain the first choice access for hemodialysis. The antecubital fossa is recommended as the next site. However, for some patients a basilic vein can be used to create an arteriovenous (av) fistula. We report a series of patients where the forearm basilic vein served as an alternative conduit for secondary procedures. Over an 8-year period, 30 patients who had a failed RC fistula underwent a basilic vein transposition. The immediate results were satisfactory. All fistulas were successfully cannulated. Cumulative patency was 93% after 1 year, 78% after 2 years, and 55% after 3 years. No ischemic or infectious complications were noted during the study period. The use of the forearm basilic vein to create a native av fistula appears to be a good alternative to procedures in the antecubital fossa or upper arm, thus preserving more proximal veins for future use.