AV Fistula Doppler USG Data of Hemodialysis Patients With High Venous Pressure

OBJECTIVE: Venous pressure monitor is one of the monitors in hemodialysis equipment reflecting the difference of pressure between the dializer and venous needle. Pressure is generally between +50 and +150 mmHg. In our study, we investigated AV fistula Doppler USG data of hemodialysis patients with high venous pressure.

MATERIALS and METHODS: Twenty-five patients (11 females, 14 males) included in the study. Patients were allocated to their venous pressures: Group 1 >150 mmHg and Group 2 <150 mmHg. Groups were compared according to their AV fistula Doppler USG data.

RESULTS: Pulsatility (PI) and resistivity indices (RI) of patients with high venous pressure were significantly higher. Venous pressure of patients with significant atherosclerosis in the arterial portion of AV fistula was higher. Increase of thrombosis in the venous portion was significantly correlated with higher venous pressure.

CONCLUSION: High venous pressure during dialysis session is an indirect marker of fistula dysfunction reflected by high PI and RI in Doppler USG. High venous pressure has been correlated with the level of atherosclerosis in the artery of fistula and thrombosis in the vein of fistula.