[Xeroradiographic studies of arteriovenous shunts in patients on hemodialysis (author's transl)].

A simple procedure for visualization of iatrogenic av-shunts in the upper extremity of patients on hemodialysis is presented. During compression proximal to the fistula (applying pressure of more than the patient's systolic value) 45 ml Metrizamide (80 mg iodine/ml) are injected into the venous limb of the shunt. A single xeroradiogram obtained 5-7 seconds later shows the arterial and venous vessels simultaneously. The examination requires less than 15 minutes to perform and is far less discomforting to the patient than arteriography. 42 patients were examined by this method without complications. Pathological findings - including stenoses, pseudoaneurysms and venous thromboses - were confirmed surgically.