Abstract
Purpose
The aim of this study was to identify the effects of external beam radiation on PTFE dialysis graft dysfunction.
Methods
Seven patients who underwent PTFE dialysis graft angioplasty were randomized to receive either two 8 Gy doses of external beam radiation or no radiation. The primary endpoint was time to graft thrombosis with a secondary endpoint of time to first intervention.
Results
There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in either of the endpoints, although grafts in the radiation group had a shorter time to thrombosis or intervention.
Conclusions
Our results demonstrate technical feasibility for use of external beam radiation in the setting of dialysis vascular access graft dysfunction. Larger randomized studies are required to identify whether there is a clinical benefit from this intervention.
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