CURRENT PERSPECTIVES ON THROMBOSIS PREVENTION IN ARTERIOVENOUS FISTULAS IN PATIENTS UNDERGOING HEMODIALYSIS

In recent years, there has been a steady increase in the number of patients with stage 5 chronic kidney disease who require renal replacement therapy (RRT). It is essential to provide the patient with reliable and long-term functioning vascular access to deliver RRT by means of maintenance hemodialysis (HD). The “gold standard” for vascular access in HD is the arteriovenous fistula (AVF). Its creation ensures adequate blood flow, a lower incidence of infectious complications, and improved patient survival compared with other options, such as central venous catheters and vascular grafts. The preservation of AVF function directly determines the effectiveness of dialysis therapy and patient survival.

Objective. To present and summarize current understanding of the pathogenesis, risk factors, and preventive strategies for AVF thrombosis in patients undergoing hemodialysis.

Materials and Methods. A literature review was conducted covering the years 2010–2025 using the PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases. The analysis included original studies, meta-analyses, clinical guidelines, and expert consensus documents addressing AVF dysfunction.

Results. AVF thrombosis remains a leading cause of vascular access failure, driven by multiple mechanisms including intimal hyperplasia, inflammation, metabolic disturbances, and surgical factors. Key demographic, anatomical, and laboratory predictors of complications were identified. The prognostic value of preoperative ultrasound vessel mapping and comprehensive patient assessment was demonstrated. Pharmacological prevention remains controversial. Promising approaches include the use of prostaglandin E1 and prostacyclin analogs, along with individualized risk stratification strategies.

Conclusion. Effective prevention of AVF thrombosis requires a multidisciplinary approach encompassing preoperative planning, risk factor control, and further clinical research into novel therapeutic options.

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