ABSTRACT

Background: Repeated access to circulation is essential to conduct the adequate maintenance hemodialysis. The efficiency of arteriovenous fistula, being permanent source of access to vascular system in hemodialysis, is severely hampered by its complications

Aim: To determine the frequency of most common early complications of arteriovenous fistula in patients on maintenance hemodialysis.

Methods: This cross sectional study was conducted over a period of five years. Total 450 patients of hemodialysis were included. Informed consent was taken and demographics were noted. Early postoperative complications of AV fistula were recorded.

Results: Average age of the patients was 39.61±8.17 years. There were 255 (56.7%) males and 195 (43.3%) females. Radiocephalic fistula was constructed in 198 (44%) cases while brachiocephalic fistula in 252 (56%) cases. Among early complications, 19 (4.2%) cases had wound infection, 27 (6%) had thrombosed AV accesses and 12 (2.6%) had bleeding.

Conclusion: Early complications of AVF may compromise its efficacy as source of vascular access for maintenance hemodialysis. Timey detection and management improves patient morbidity.

Keywords: Maintenance Hemodialysis, Arteriovenous fistula, Infection, Thrombosis, Bleeding.