Vascular access: experience with the brachiocephalic fistula.

Eight years' experience with the brachiocephalic fistula for vascular access are reported. Eighty one fistulae were created in 77 patients. Forty one fistulae were created by an end to side anastomosis and 40 using a side to side technique. Overall patency was 70% at 1 year; 57% at 2 years; 50% at 3 years, which compares well with other secondary access procedures. Anastomotic configuration did not significantly affect fistula survival. Cardiac failure and arterial steal syndrome were significant problems with the side to side fistula. Two patients died from fistula complications; one exsanguinated at home from a cannulation site and another succumbed to high output cardiac failure. Infection was rare. The end to side brachiocephalic fistula is recommended as the secondary vascular access procedure of choice. It is a simple, reliable procedure which does not require graft implantation and preserves the saphenous vein, should tertiary access be required.