Abstract: Objective To study the value of preoperative venographic mapping in patients who require arteriovenous fistulas. Methods From June 2012 to Jan. 2014, venography was performed in 21 uremia cases. Arteriovenous fistula was then created based on the venography image. Vasodilators and anti-platelet therapy were administered postoperatively. Results Arteriovenous fistulas were successfully accomplished in the 21 cases. A total of 36 veins were found to be suitable for arteriovenous fistula. In the 21 cases, 4 forearm arteriovenous fistulas, 8 elbow arteriovenous fistulas, and 9 arteriovenous fistula grafts were created with surgical success rate of 100% and primary patency rate of 100%. Conclusion Venography is a useful tool for venous mapping prior to vascular access surgery. It can identify clinically occult veins usable for hemodialysis access, and is worthy of clinical application.

Key words: arteriovenous fistulas, venography, veins, evaluation