Basilic vein transposition-radial artery fistula created using the no-touch technique

Objective To compare the functions and complications of forearm basilic vein transposition-arteriovenous fistula (BVT-AVF) created using the no-touch technique with that of conventional radiocephalic arteriovenous fistula (RC-AVF). Materials and methods The no-touch technique was used to created basilic vein transposition-radial artery fistula in 22 patients. Another 30 patients received surgeries for RC-AVF. The fistula functions and complications were compared between these two groups. Results The two groups did not differ significantly in the incidence of postoperative bleeding, limb swelling, infection, steal syndrome, fistula thrombosis, fistula aneurysm, fistula flow, fistula maturation time, Kt/v, and fistula median survival. Conclusion Forearm BVT-AVF created by the no-touch technique is a good alternative access for patients in whom the standard arteriovenous fistula cannot be established.