Clinical Significance of Preoperative Venogram in Arterio-Venous Shunt Operation

ABSTRACT

The most common limiting factor in arterio-venous fistula operation (AVF) is the lack of a suitable native vein. So preoperative assessment of venous system is essential for successful results. But simple physical examination alone is not enough to assess in many cases. To evaluate difference between venogram results with physical examination, 20 patients (group A) imaged with venogram preoperatively compared with 20 patients (group B) who examined only physically. In group A, all patients palpated thrill in immediate post operation and one patient revealed fistula occlusion within post operative 2 months. In group B 4 patients revealed failed fistula within 24 hours and 5 fistula failed in 2 months. Twelve patients (>50%) of group A showed different results in venogram compared with physical examination, which influenced type of operation. Physical examination alone was not enough to assess venous system and venogram provided valuable information in AVF constructive surgery.