Abstract: Objective To investigate the implementation of the ACUSEAL graft for hemodialysis access and early cannulation. Methods The clinical data of the patients who underwent ACUSEAL graft for hemodialysis access were collected. The internal diameters of brachial artery and upper arm vein in surgical side were determined by ultrasonography. Artificial blood vessel and autovessel were connected by side and end anastomosis to construct a U-shaped artificial vascular loop. Forearm swelling was observed after the operation. ACUSEAL graft fistula was punctured in the case of forearm swelling or treatment need. The puncture site was pressed for 15- 20 minutes after hemodialysis access. Results Seventeen patients (58.6%) were found to have diabetes. Most of the patients had the history of central venous catheterization or arteriovenous fistula. The mean diameter of the anastomostic arteries was 3.81±0.67mm, and the mean diameter of veins after applying tourniquet was 4.46±1.47mm. All the operations were completed successfully. No obvious limb swelling was found. The ACUSEAL graft was used for hemodialysis access after the operation for one week in 24 patients (82.8%), and the central venous catheters were removed after the operation for one week in 76.2% patients. Conclusion The use of ACUSEAL graft to establish arteriovenous fistula avoided limb swelling, shortened the placement of central venous catheters, and provided the possibility to earlier use the arteriovenous fistula.

Key words: Vascular graft, Arteriovenous fistula, Hemodialysis