Abstract: Autogenous arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is the preferred vascular access method with higher dialysis efficiency for maintenance hemodialysis patients. However, many patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) are complicated with cardiovascular events, which is the leading cause of mortality in this population. The establishment of an AVF induces significant hemodynamic changes in cardiovascular system and structural and functional remodeling of the heart, which may adversely affect the quality of life and survival of the patients. Therefore, elucidating the impact of AVF on cardiac function can provide theoretical bases for prevention and management of AVF-associated cardiac complications. This review summarizes the effect of AVF establishment on cardiac function in ESRD patients.

Key words: Arteriovenous fistula, Left ventricular hypertrophy, Heart failure, Right ventricular dysfunction, Pulmonary arterial hypertension