The Last Option Before the Prosthetic Graft in Arteriovenous Fistula Formation: Brachiobasilic Vein Transposition

Abstract

Objective: Simple arteriovenous fistulas created with cephalic vein provide good vascular access for hemodialysis. Brachiobasilic vein transposition (BBVT) and prosthetic graft (PG) are two alternative methods for vascular access if cephalic vein occlusion have occured. In this study we aimed to compared these two methods and determine the advantages of the procedure. Material and Methods: From June 2006 to April 2009, 83 patients who had undergone BBVT and PG procedures were analyzed retrospectively. The cases were evaluated with their follow up data of 24 months. Trombosis, patency, infection, revision and infection rates were determined with Chi Square and Fischer's Exact tests. Results: No significiant difference was determined between the groups for demographic data and risk factors. However, trombosis (p=0.021), patency (p=0.040), infection (p=0.001) and revision (p=0.001) rates of BBVT group were superior to PG group. Mortality was similar in both groups (p=0.46). Conclusion: BBVT procedure with high patency and low infection rate is an efficient, safe and preferred method for vascular access.