Cross-sectional imaging for presurgical planning of dialysis circuit vascular access creation in the end stage renal disease patient population.

This systematic review explores the role of cross-sectional imaging modalities-computed tomography angiography (CTA) and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA)-in the preoperative planning of dialysis vascular access for patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). A systematic search was conducted using PubMed and Cochrane databases, yielding 45 studies meeting inclusion criteria. These modalities are particularly valuable in cases of complex vascular anatomy, central venous stenosis, and prior surgical interventions. Findings emphasize the advantages of CTA for detailed anatomical mapping and MRA for cases requiring soft-tissue contrast or preservation of renal function. Representative clinical cases illustrate how imaging findings directly influence surgical and endovascular decision-making, optimizing patient outcomes. This manuscript describes the role of cross-sectional imaging for dialysis circuit vascular access interventions including representative clinical examples.