ABSTRACT
PURPOSE: To detect early arteriovenous fistula (AVF) dysfunction, we have developed a new method of intra-access total pressure (pT), and static pressure (pS) measurements. The purpose of this study is to assess the relationship between intra-access pressure and vascular stricture in order to establish the clinical validity of the method. METHODS: Total 46 of native AVFs were enrolled. They were measured intra-access pS and pT monthly. In initial angiography, 6 of 10 inflow stricture (As), 6 of 7 outflow stricture (Vs) and 2 having both lesions were taken PTA (percutaneous angioplasty) and compared pressure and ratio changes. If delta p (pT-pS) decreased more than 10% over 3 months or pT/MAP (mean arterial pressure) ratio dropped more than 10% over 3 months with below 0.8, then the patients were referred to angiography. Thirtyone patients were performed final angiography, and we compared the results with those of initial angiography. RESULTS: Although pT/MAP ratio and delta p were increased after PTA, there was no statistical significance in 6 As (+) patients (p>0.05). Six Vs (+) and 2 AS (+) and Vs (+) patients' delta p were increased significantly (p0.45). CONCLUSION: Intra-access stricture could be detected with pT/MAP ratio and delta p change. However, more careful MAP and pT measurement should be recommended for accurate diagnosis.