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Review
. 2021 Nov;22(1_suppl):56-62.
doi: 10.1177/11297298211034638. Epub 2021 Jul 21.

Current role of ultrasound in hemodialysis access evaluation

Meola Mario  1 , Jose Ibeas  2 , Jan Malik  3
Affiliations
Review

Current role of ultrasound in hemodialysis access evaluation

Meola Mario et al. J Vasc Access. 2021 Nov.

Abstract

Physical examination (PE) is considered the backbone before vascular access (VA) placement, during maturation period and for follow-up. However, it may be inadequate in identifying suitable vasculature, mainly in comorbid patients, or in detecting complications. This review highlights the advantages of ultrasound imaging to manage VA before placement, during maturation and follow-up. Furthermore, it analyses the future perspectives in evaluating early and late VA complications thank to the availability of multiparametric platforms, point of care of ultrasound, and portable/wireless systems. Technical improvements and low-cost systems should favor the widespread ultrasound-based VA surveillance programs. This significant turning point needs an adequate training of nephrologists and dialysis nurses and the standardization of exams, parameters, and procedures.

Keywords: B-Mode and pulsed wave Doppler; Vascular access; point of care of ultrasound; ultrasound instrumentation; vascular access surveillance.

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Conflict of interest statement

Declaration of conflicting interests: The author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Figures

Figure 1.
Figure 1.
Wireless ultrasound probe.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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