The Use of a Transit Time Flow Meter in Arteriovenous Fistula and the Evaluation of its Effect on Early Period Fistula Patency

Abstract

Objective: Arteriovenous fistula (AVF) operations are the most common method to facilitate hemodialysis in patients with chronic renal failure. The longevity of AVF is vital in patients undergoing hemodialysis. We investigated the effect of Transit Time Flow Meter (TTFM) use on AVF patency. Methods: 108 patients (42 in the study group, 66 in the control group) who underwent AVF formation for the first time in the last five years were included in the study. In the measurements made with TTFM, if the pulsatility index (PI) was >5 and the mean flow value was <30 mL/min, AVFs were considered insufficient. Results: Age, gender, low-density lipoprotein values (LDL), non-dominant extremity, and accompanying peripheral artery disease in the study group of patients were similar, and smoking in the study group and hypertension in the control group were the most common risk factors. PI and mean flow rates with TFTM in the study group were within the normal range. No statistically significant difference was found in the AVF patency rates when we compared the different periods between groups. However, when evaluating the AVF patency of the groups in the whole period, it was determined that the patency of the patients in the study group was better than the control, and this finding was statistically significant. Conclusion: Intraoperative use of TTFM helps detect AVF dysfunction. This method provides a longer vascular patency time. Increases patient comfort by prolonging the function and life of the AVF.