Arteriovenous Fistulas : Diagnosis and Management

Abstract

Arteriovenous fistulas are shunts between arteries and veins that can be found in many organs of the human body such as the brain, skin, eye and lung. These lesions can be symptomatic by causing ischemia, through the process of the steal phenomenon, or vascular congestion and subsequent hemorrhage, eg. intracerebral hemorrhage of a ruptured dural arteriovenous fistula. The etiology of these lesions is not fully understood, some are congenital and others are acquired. On the other hand, iatrogenic arteriovenous fistulas, such as in hemodialysis patients, can be a life-saving procedure. This book provides a clear and concise review of the diagnosis and management of arteriovenous fistulas throughout the human body. It could be a great resource to medical students, residents, fellows, professors and researchers in the field.