Characterization of Vessel Wall Vibrations of an Arteriovenous Fistula Over the Maturation Period

Arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is the preferred vascular access for hemodialysis, but is still associated with a high failure rate. This study aims at characterizing AVF changes in vessel wall vibrations during the maturation period. Three-dimensional AVF models were generated from MR images acquired 3 days and 6 weeks after surgery in a 72-year-old male patient. Blood velocities obtained from Ultrasound were imposed as boundary conditions for high-fidelity fluid-structure interaction simulations. Results showed predominant wall vibrations between anastomosis and perianastomotic vein, the typical areas where the stenosis develops, highlighting their potential role in the mechanobiological process responsible for AVF failure.