The first fistula: influence of location on catheter use and the influence of catheter use on maturation

Background The forearm location for the initial vascular access has traditionally been considered the most desirable; however, recent advances in our understanding the physiology of fistula development suggest that the larger proximal vessels with higher blood flows may be associated with increased wall stress and faster fistula development. We examined whether the location of a first fistula had any relationship to the incidence and duration of catheter use. Methods This was an observational study of 808 patients who underwent the creation of an autologous arteriovenous fistula for their first hemodialysis access who were evaluated for the length of use of a temporary catheter. The variables studied for their effect upon catheter use included: location in the forearm or upper arm, age, the presence of diabetes, vascular disease or smoking history. Results Despite being younger ( P