Deep Vein Thrombosis Research Today is a free monthly online journal that collates and summarizes the latest research about Deep Vein Thrombosis, including details on dvt, prevention, effects, causes, air travel, blood clots. | ||||||||
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Needle infiltration of arteriovenous fistulae in hemodialysis: risk factors and consequences.Lee T, Barker J, Allon M Division of Nephrology, University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL, USA. BACKGROUND: Needle infiltration of arteriovenous fistulae is a common problem in US hemodialysis units. This study evaluated the frequency of fistula infiltration, its risk factors, and clinical consequences of this complication. METHODS: Using a prospective computerized vascular access database, we identified all patients with a major fistula infiltration sufficiently severe to prolong catheter dependence for dialysis. These patients were compared with a control group without fistula infiltration. We also quantified subsequent access outcomes in patients with infiltrations. RESULTS: During a 5-year period, 47 patients had a major fistula infiltration, representing a 5.2% annual rate. On multiple variable logistic regression analysis, the likelihood of fistula infiltration was associated strongly with patient age (odds ratio, 1.039/1-year increment; 95% confidence interval, 1.016 to 1.062; P = 0.0007). Fistula infiltration was not associated with sex, race, diabetic status, peripheral vascular disease, body mass index, or fistula location. New fistulas (< 6 months in age) were more likely in patients with infiltrations compared with patients without infiltrations (43.5% versus 20.5%; odds ratio, 2.98; 95% confidence interval, 1.61 to 5.54; P = 0.0004). Each major fistula infiltration resulted in a mean of 2.4 diagnostic tests, surgery appointments, or interventions. Fistula thrombosis occurred in 12 patients (26%). Median prolongation of catheter dependence for dialysis in patients with major infiltrations was 97 days. CONCLUSION: Needle infiltration of fistulae is more common in older patients and with new fistulae. These infiltrations result in numerous procedures, as well as prolongation of catheter dependence for more than 3 months. Published 29 May 2006 in Am J Kidney Dis, 47(6): 1020-6.
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