Methods: Radio-median cubital AVF was created in 66 patients (31 males, 35 females; mean age 49.6 years; range 22 to 77 years) who were unsuitable for standard radiocephalic fistula creation. The study was performed in a prospective manner. All patients were analyzed with duplex Doppler ultrasonography at postoperative 15th day and sixth month.
Results: Early postoperative complications -within postoperative 15 days- were observed in 10 patients (15.1%). At first follow-up on 15th day, 64 in 66 patients (97.0%) had patent AVF. At sixth month follow-up, 56 in 61 patients (91.8%) had patent AVF. Three patients (5.0%) with patent AVFs were not initiated on hemodialysis within six months. None of the patients had signs of steal syndrome within postoperative six months.
Conclusion: We achieved satisfactory results using radio-median cubital AVF creation technique in patients unsuitable for standard radiocephalic fistula creation. This technique may be a good alternative for patients with poor venous or arterial structure at the level of wrist.