Accuracy of physical examination versus Doppler ultrasonography for determining maturity in postoperative arteriovenous fistula formation

A physical examination was performed by a single vascular surgeon on patients with chronic kidney disease undergoing AVF placement, and a radiologist performed Doppler ultrasonography during the second and sixth postoperative weeks. AVF maturation was determined by dialysis nurses who were asked to perform cannulation. For a fistula to be considered mature, at least six consecutive successful cannulations with a blood flow rate of at least 300 mL/min were required. The accuracy of physical examination and Doppler ultrasonography was compared. The model was developed to predict the success of AVF use.