Radiocephalic Fistula Recovery Using the Forearm Basilic Vein: A Case Report

Abstract

Dysfunction of the arteriovenous fistula for hemodialysis is a challenge for the nephrologist and the vascular surgeon. Although experience is limited, the use of the forearm basilic vein as outflow of the radiocephalic fistula has been considered. We report the case of a 60-year-old male, with cardiovascular comorbidities and a history of ischemic complications induced by the hemodialysis access. Drainage problems were present in the radiocephalic fistula and the forearm basilic vein was used in the vascular access repair. The procedure was successful, and the patient maintains a functional fistula, with secondary patency of 32 months, with no cardiac complications or hand access-induced distal ischaemia syndrome.

Keywords

• arteriovenous shunt
• surgical; fistula
• forearm
• radial artery
• renal dialysis
• veins