Abstract: Objectives Dysfunction of vascular access in hemodialysis is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in hemodialysis patients. The most common cause of vascular access dysfunction is venous stenosis resulting from venous neointimal hyperplasia (VNH) within the peri-anastomotic region of AV fistula. Failed fistula can be restored by VNH stripping. This study investigated the pathological changes of cephalic vein before and after VNH stripping. Methods Vein samples were collected before and after VNH stripping near the site of AV anastomosis. Histological and immunohistochemical studies were performed on these vein samples. Results The majority of the cells in neointima were myofibroblasts (SMA positive). The vascular endothelial cell marker CD34 still existed after VNH stripping. Conclusion Vascular endothelial cell marker CD34 still existed after VNH stripping.

Key words: Arteriovenous fistula, venous neointimal hyperplasia, pathological change