Evaluation of Percutaneous Transluminal Angioplasty Screening using Color Doppler Ultrasonography

Abstract

Purpose Well-functioning vascular access is important in hemodialysis patients. The aim of this study was to assess stenosis using color Doppler ultrasonography as well as to investigate a possible association between the need for percutaneous transluminal angioplasty and hemodynamic parameters. Methods A prospective study of the medical records of color Doppler ultrasonography routine examinations of 372 patients was conducted at a dialysis satellite clinic in Japan. Data were analyzed using logistic regression analysis and the receiver operating characteristic curve. The cutoff point for hemodynamic parameters was determined to explore the predictors of percutaneous transluminal angioplasty. Results Logistic regression analysis showed that brachial artery flow volume, brachial artery resistance index and puncture point flow volume divided by the quantity of dialysis blood flow rate were independently associated with percutaneous transluminal angioplasty. Brachial artery resistance index over 0.61, brachial artery blood flow volume under 665 mL/min and puncture point flow volume divided by dialysis blood flow rates under 1.25 were predictive values of the need for percutaneous transluminal angioplasty. Conclusions These parameters could be used as markers for assessing percutaneous transluminal angioplasty risk in hemodialysis patients.