Easy and early diagnosis of dysfunctions of the fistula is important for hemodialysis using an arteriovenous fistula (AVF) with sufficient output. The usefulness of bioimpedance analysis conducted when monitoring dialysis patients is assessed for ascertaining the fistula function. The bioimpedance of extremities was measured for two test groups with an AVF (n = 31; n = 22), utilizing different electrode arrangements for each group, and for a control group of healthy subjects (n = 20). The fistula’s flow volume was measured using duplex sonography. The assessment focused on whether differences in the bioimpedance between the two extremities with and without the fistula could serve as indicators of the quality of the fistula function. Bioimpedance measurements (reactance, resistance, phase angle) were subjected to a t-test statistical analysis. The first test group showed a significant difference (t=2.826) between the arm with an AVF and the opposing side. The second test group, measured at the ipsilateral of the hand and shoulder joint, demonstrated highly significant differences for the above three parameters (t=8.419). However, no correlation could be established between the fistula’s flow and bioimpedance values. Therefore, in contrast to duplex sonography, it is presently infeasible to assess the fistula function from the above set of measurements. |