COMPARISON BETWEEN NATIVE ARTERIOVENOUS FISTULA AND GRAFT IN PATIENTS REFERRED FOR HEMODIALYSIS ACCESS PLACEMENT

Abstract

Arteriovenous fistula is considered as a prerequisite in patients with chronic renal failure undergoing hemodialysis. The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness and side effects if any of native vein and synthetic grafts in these patients. From April 2002 till July 2003, a total of 37 patients were referred to us for the utilization of these grafts. In 16 out of these patients we utilized native vein at the elbow joint, and in 21 patients we used polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) graft. In the native group, the results were better and side effects minimal and economically was in the interest of the patients. We advocate native vein as far as possible and give it a top priority.