[The role of colour Doppler ultrasound in the creation, maturation and evaluation of arteriovenous fistula for hemodialysis].

Chronic renal failure is a pathophysiologic process that can be lead to a loss of renal function and consequently to dialysis or transplantation. Currently, hemodialysis is dependent on the creation of arteriovenous fistulas, grafts and polytetrafluoroethylene double lumen catheters. However, fistulas have greater durability and lower rates of failure and infection. The Colour Doppler has assumed an important role in the arterial and venous mapping for the creation of fistulas as well at screening for complications. The aim of this study was to identify the sonographic criteria in the pre-operative period of maturation and evaluation throughout time of arteriovenous fistulas for hemodialysis.