Introduction of arteriovenous grafts with graft insertion anastomosis for hemodialysis access.

OBJECTIVE: An arteriovenous bridging graft is a viable option for patients with compromised arteries or veins because of advanced age or diabetes. Arteriovenous graft with graft insertion anastomosis (AVGI) is the novel technique for graft-vein anastomosis where the prosthesis is inserted into the vein, and the anastomosis is performed on the surface of the prosthesis. This study assessed the short-term and long-term results of AVGI to clarify the efficacy of this technique.

METHODS: Between 2010 and 2015, AVGI was performed in graft-vein anastomosis of prosthetic forearm loop access. Characteristics and level of complications were assessed. To evaluate the long-term results, functional graft patency and frequency of percutaneous transluminal angioplasty were examined.

RESULTS: The study comprised 58 patients. There were no deaths related to the surgery. The time of hemostasis after AVGI was recorded at 0 seconds because no bleeding from the suture holes was seen. At 1, 2, and 3 years, primary patency were 45.1% ± 7.5%, 23.1% ± 7.5%, and 23.1% ± 7.5%, respectively, and assisted primary patency rates were 59.4% ± 7.2%, 50.8% ± 7.6%, and 50.8% ± 7.6%, respectively. Secondary patency rates at 4 and 5 years were 100% ± 0% and 94.1% ± 5.7%, respectively. The frequency of percutaneous balloon angioplasty to maintain the patency was 1.61 ± 0.53 times per year. Graft infection occurred in four patients (6.9%).

CONCLUSIONS: AVGI is an advantageous technique for graft vein anastomosis in an arteriovenous bridging graft in both the short-term and long-term.