Duplex Doppler Imaging of Dialysis Fistulae and Grafts

Abstract

Arteriovenous fistulae and grafts for hemodialysis access are a lifeline in patients with end-stage renal disease. A significant cause of morbidity and mortality in this population is dialysis access dysfunction. Duplex ultrasound imaging is an excellent modality to evaluate arteriovenous fistulae and grafts, the 2 main types of long-term hemodialysis access. This review provides a detailed Doppler ultrasound protocol for evaluation of fistulae or grafts to familiarize imagers with their normal appearance, highlighting common dialysis access complications.