What are the causes of stenosis in arteriovenous fistulas?

Generally, the causes of arteriovenous fistula (AVF) stenosis include thrombosis, vascular inflammation, and vessel wall thickening. An arteriovenous fistula is a surgical connection between an artery and a vein, created for long-term hemodialysis treatment. AVF stenosis refers to the narrowing of the blood vessel at the fistula site. The specific causes are analyzed as follows:

1. Thrombosis

Thrombus formation within the AVF may lead to stenosis and impair blood flow. Patients should seek medical attention promptly. Depending on the condition, treatments such as physical therapy or surgical intervention may be necessary to prevent complications from thrombus dislodgement.

2. Vascular Inflammation

The blood vessels surrounding the AVF may become inflamed, leading to endothelial cell proliferation and subsequent stenosis. Timely medical evaluation is essential. Treatment options, including physical therapy or surgery, can help alleviate inflammatory symptoms and control disease progression.

3. Vessel Wall Thickening

The vessel walls around the AVF may thicken over time due to continuous blood flow, resulting in stenosis. Patients are advised to seek prompt medical care. Management strategies such as physical therapy or surgical treatment should be implemented based on individual conditions to relieve symptoms and prevent further deterioration.

In addition, the blood vessels around the AVF may also be affected by factors such as surgery or trauma. Infection near the AVF site can also trigger inflammation and stenosis. The development of AVF stenosis may compromise the effectiveness of dialysis and, in severe cases, lead to AVF failure. Therefore, patients experiencing symptoms of AVF stenosis should promptly visit a nephrology department at a hospital for proper diagnosis and treatment.