Arteriovenous fistula and graft evaluation in hemodialysis patients using MDCT: a primer

Abstract

Objective: Patent arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is related to better prognosis and quality of life for patients on long-term dialysis. When AVF dysfunction is suspected, MDCT is a good noninvasive tool for evaluating the entire AVF structure and determining reversible conditions for treatment. The aim of this article is to introduce the scanning and interpretation techniques and to illustrate the conditions related to early and late fistula failures.

Conclusion: MDCT is a fast, noninvasive, and accurate technique for diagnosing AVF complications. Radiologists familiar with these techniques can help to improve the prognosis and quality of life for hemodialysis patients.