The impact of duplex ultrasound surveillance on long-term secondary patency and central vein catheter placement in arteriovenous access for hemodialysis: A single-center retrospective study

The preservation of ArterioVenous Access (AVA) patency is crucial for effective hemodialysis, minimizing the need for Central Vein Catheter (CVC) placement, which is associated with higher risks of infection and other complications. This study evaluates the impact of a structured Duplex Ultrasound (DUS) surveillance program on the long-term secondary patency of AVAs compared to standard clinical assessment alone. We retrospectively analyzed data from patients with AVAs between 2020 and 2024. The results suggest that DUS surveillance significantly improves the long-term secondary patency of AVAs and reduces the rate of CVC placement, thereby enhancing patient outcomes and optimizing vascular access management.