Comparison of distal radiocephalic fistula vs proximal radiocephalic fistula

BACKGROUND: Distal radiocephalic fistula (DRCF) at wrist is the first option of vascular access in patients undergoing hemodialysis. In patients with a failed DRCF or unsuitable for DRCF the current recommendation is to perform a brachiocephalic fistula. Proximal forearm radiocephalic fistulas (PRCF) are created less frequently. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the outcomes of PRCF and DRCF. MATERIAL AND METHODS: value <0.05 was consider statistically significant during analysis. RESULTS: The demographic data of the two patient groups were similar except that those with PRCF were more likely to have had a previous access and caliber of distal vessel was less. Early failure was lower for PRCF than DRCF (6.06% vs 15%). Primary patency rate at one year was 87.87% in PRCF vs 70% in DRCF. CONCLUSION: A PRCF can be a suitable alternative to a brachiocephalic fistula in patients who cannot receive a DRCF.