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Arteriovenous Fistula
Medical Questions » Arteriovenous Fistula
| Name: Arteriovenous Fistula |
| Also known as: |
| Abnormal connection (fistula) between an artery and a vein. |
Causes of Arteriovenous Fistula
May be congenital (developmental abnormality), or due to an injury or cancer. Sometimes surgically created in the forearm for insertion of a shunt used for kidney dialysis. |
Symptoms of Arteriovenous Fistula
Depends on site and severity. An abnormal pulsating lump may be seen or felt. May reduce the blood supply to vital organs, and affect their function. |
Tests for Arteriovenous Fistula
Diagnosed by arteriography (X-ray of blood vessels) in which a dye is injected into an artery and its movement through the fistula into the vein recorded. |
Treatment for Arteriovenous Fistula
Surgical closure or destruction of the fistula.
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Complications of Arteriovenous Fistula of its treatment
Blood clots can form in the turbulent blood flow in a fistula, and travel through the veins to the heart and lungs to cause a pulmonary embolus (see separate entry). |
Likely Outcome of Arteriovenous Fistula
Surgical results are usually very good. |
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