Outcome of BCF Access in Hemodialysis Patients

Dialysis access, which is the connection that allows blood to flow in and out of the body during dialysis sessions, is important to remove wastes and excess fluid for patients with end stage renal disease (ESRD). One method used to access the vein and artery for dialysis is called a brachiocephalic fistula. Patients are being asked to participate in this study because they have endstage renal disease, and their doctor has recommended that they will have brachiocephalic fistula placed for their dialysis access. A common problem seen in patients with a brachiocephalic fistula (BCF) is cephalic arch stenosis (CAS). CAS is a narrowing in the central vein (located in the upper chest). CAS causes problems with the opening of the veins and arteries needed for dialysis. Once someone suffers CAS they may need several radiology procedures as well as surgery to help correct the problem. The BCF may fail once CAS develops. The purpose of the research study is to gather information about the BCF and what is happening inside the vein. The researchers hope to find out what may be the cause of CAS.