Primary Balloon Angioplasty Versus Hydrostatic Dilation for Arteriovenous Fistula Creation in Patients with Small-Caliber Cephalic Veins: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Background: For arteriovenous fistula (AVF) presence of a venous segment with adequate diameter is essential which is lacking in many patients. To find the optimal augmentation technique in patients with small-caliber cephalic vein (i.e.

A Faculty Development Workshop for Planning and Implementing Interactive Virtual Case-Based Teaching.

Introduction: The virtual learning environment has become increasingly important due to physical distance requirements put in place during the COVID-19 pandemic. The transition to a virtual format has been challenging for case-based teaching sessions, which involve substantial audience participation. We developed a faculty development workshop aimed at teaching health professions educators how to use various interactive virtual tools within videoconferencing platforms to facilitate virtual case-based sessions.

Comparison of forearm versus upper arm basilic transposition arteriovenous fistulas demonstrates equivalent satisfactory patency.

Objective: In accordance with the Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative recommendations, attaining autogenous hemodialysis access, specifically via creation of radiocephalic arteriovenous fistulas (AVF), brachial-basilic (BB)-AVF, or brachial-cephalic AVFs, is preferred for mortality and morbidity benefits over catheter access in patients with end-stage renal disease. The aim of this study is to determine the suitability of forearm basilic vein transposition (FBVT) fistulas as an alternative access option by comparing outcomes with those of BB-AVFs.

Methods: All patients who underwent creation of FBVT between 2007 and 2015 were identified retrospectively in the electronic medical record and compared with a sample of patients undergoing BB-AVF placement during this time.

Hispanic ethnicity is associated with increased costs after carotid endarterectomy and carotid stenting in the United States.

Objective: We have previously demonstrated an adverse impact of black race and Hispanic ethnicity on the outcomes of carotid endarterectomy (CEA) and carotid artery stenting (CAS). The current study was undertaken to examine the influence of race and ethnicity on the cost of CEA and CAS.

Methods: The Nationwide Inpatient Sample (2005-2009) was queried using ICD-9 codes for CEA and CAS in patients with carotid artery stenosis.

Comparing the embolic potential of open and closed cell stents during carotid angioplasty and stenting.

Objective: We sought to determine the effects of open (O) and closed (C) cell stents on the size and number of embolic particles generated during carotid artery stenting (CAS) and assess the impact on outcome.

Methods: Embolic debris from carotid filters after CAS was analyzed using photomicroscopy and imaging software. Patient comorbidities, preoperative cerebrovascular symptoms, stent type, and outcomes (perioperative major adverse events) were examined.