arteriovenous fistula
An abnormal direct connection between an artery and vein, bypassing the normal capillary bed.
Full Definition
An arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is an abnormal communication between an arterial and venous system that bypasses the normal capillary circulation. AVFs can be congenital, traumatic, or iatrogenic, and may be intentionally created for dialysis access or occur as complications of medical procedures. In vascular imaging, AVFs are characterized by early venous opacification, arterial dilatation, and increased flow velocity. High-flow fistulas can lead to cardiac complications due to increased venous return, while diagnosis typically relies on duplex ultrasound, CT angiography, or conventional angiography.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as AVF; distinguish from AVM (arteriovenous malformation) which has a different morphology.
In Context
- "Duplex ultrasound confirmed a high-flow arteriovenous fistula at the puncture site." — Post-procedural vascular assessment
- "The arteriovenous fistula demonstrated excellent maturation for dialysis access." — Dialysis access surveillance report