Which vascular access method avoids synthetic grafts?

The brachiocephalic arteriovenous (AV) fistula is a direct connection between an artery and a vein, typically created in the arm. This method utilizes the patient's own blood vessels, avoiding the need for synthetic grafts. By connecting the brachial artery directly to the cephalic vein, this approach promotes the development of a strong and durable access point for dialysis.

In contrast, options that involve synthetic grafts, such as a polytetrafluoroethylene graft, use artificial materials to create a vascular connection. The other types of fistulas mentioned, such as the radial-cephalic and transposed brachiobasilic fistulas, also use the body's own veins and arteries but are not specifically focused on the brachiocephalic configuration.

Thus, the brachiocephalic AV fistula is recognized for its benefits in dialysis access, including a lower risk of infection and longer lifespan of the access site due to its reliance on the patient's own vasculature.