arteriovenous fistula
Pronunciation: ar-TEER-ee-oh-VEE-nus FIS-chuh-lah
An abnormal connection between an artery and vein, either congenital, traumatic, or surgically created for dialysis access.
Full Definition
An arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is a direct communication between an artery and vein that bypasses the normal capillary circulation. Fistulas may be congenital, acquired through trauma or disease, or surgically created for hemodialysis access. Pathological fistulas can cause high-output heart failure, while surgical fistulas for dialysis provide reliable vascular access. The condition requires specific management strategies depending on etiology and location. This terminology appears throughout nephrology, vascular surgery, and interventional documentation.
Usage
Usage note: Specify anatomical location and whether surgical or pathological for clarity in documentation.
In Context
- "The radiocephalic arteriovenous fistula matured well and is ready for cannulation." — Dialysis access evaluation
- "Traumatic arteriovenous fistula caused high-output cardiac failure." — Emergency consultation