Technical aspects of percutaneous endovascular arteriovenous fistula creation with the Ellipsys® Vascular Access System. Preliminary results after 16 patients

Abstract

Purpose: Technical aspects are crucial for planning and performing endovascular arteriovenous fistula (AVF) creation. The Ellipsys® Vascular Access System represents a minimal invasive method for the creation of a proximal forearm fistula. This report summarizes the essential elements for AVF creation with the Ellipsys® Vascular Access System and investigates feasibility, efficacy, and safety procedures conducted on 16 patients. Materials and methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of patients who underwent endovascular AVF creation with the Ellipsys® Vascular Access System between May 2020 and March 2022 at a tertiary referral center. Results: The median age was 67.5 years (47–86 years). The mean BMI was 31.4 kg/m2. AV fistula was created on 15/16 patients on their left arm. The technical success was 100%. The mean operation time was 24.2 min. There were no complications associated with the procedure. All patients were examined after 30 days (± 5 days). Primary patency after 30 days was 94% (15/16). The mean fistula flow was 681.1 mL/min and the mean AVF diameter was 6.1 mm. Thirteen out of 15 patients met the criteria for potential hemodialysis. Conclusion: With the Ellipsys Vascular Access System exist an additional possibility of an AV fistula creation. Based on above findings, the Ellipsys® Vascular Access System represents a feasible, safe, and effective method for AVF creation.