Ultrasound Scan:
Pre-AVF Mapping

This scan usually takes between 20-30 minutes to complete.

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We always scan both arms for this study.

This ultrasound will require direct contact with the neck, upper arms and forearms.

For the arms we will require for you to remove your jumper and long sleeve shirts; short sleeve shirts don't need to be removed. We will place a tourniquet on the upper arm to dilate the veins as much as possible. We will the apply ultrasound gel and scan the veins from the upper arm all the way down to the wrist. We will remove the tourniquet and scan back over this same region, expect this time we will be assessing the arteries. We will then ask you to lie down while we assess the veins of your neck.

In situations of renal failure (or impending renal failure) your Doctor will likely consider using haemodialysis as a means of cleaning the blood. In order to undertake haemodialysis an arterio-venous fistula (AVF) will need to be created. This is formed by connecting a suitable vein and artery together in order to promote an area of increased blood flow that can be accessed routinely.

 

A pre-fistula mapping scan is performed to evaluate the suitability and optimal placement of an arteriovenous fistula (AVF) or graft for dialysis access. A pre-fistula mapping scan is an important step in the preparation for creating an AVF or graft for dialysis access. It ensures that the most suitable vessels are selected and that the surgical procedure is planned with precision, improving the chances of a successful and functional dialysis access for long-term haemodialysis treatment.

 

A pre-fistula mapping scan is done to:

 

Assess vessel quality and suitability

This scan helps evaluate the veins and arteries in the arms to determine if they are suitable for creating an AVF or graft. It assesses the size, caliber, and condition of the vessels to ensure they can support the necessary blood flow for dialysis.

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Identifying suitable sites for access

The mapping ultrasound scan helps identify the best location on the arm to create the AVF or graft. It examines the veins and arteries, their connections, and the presence of any obstructions or abnormalities. This information guides the surgeon in selecting an appropriate site for the dialysis access procedure.

 

Planning the surgical procedure

This scan provides detailed information about the anatomy and configuration of the blood vessels. It helps the surgeon plan the surgical approach, including the type of AVF or graft to create.

 

Predicting long-term success

By evaluating the vessels, the scan can provide insight into the potential long-term success of the dialysis access. It helps determine if the vessels are likely to develop complications such as stenosis (narrowing), thrombosis (clotting), or aneurysm formation, which could affect the functionality of the access over time.