Ultrasonographic evaluation of the arteriovenous fistula

Abstract

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is one of the most prevalent conditions in our country, with a significant proportion of patients undergoing renal replacement therapy through hemodialysis. Within this group, arteriovenous fistulas, both native and prosthetic, represent the primary vascular access. Ultrasound has become essential in the construction and monitoring of fistulas, as it is used in pre-surgical evaluation and surgical planning. Additionally, it enables the identification of predictors of early dysfunction and maturation failure, as well as the detection of subsequent complications such as stenosis and thrombosis. Therefore, ultrasonographic evaluation and the use of bedside ultrasound, or POCUS, become indispensable resources for physicians managing patients in renal replacement therapy