Arteriovenous Fistula (AVF) Creation and Heart Failure Exacerbation

Creating a new arteriovenous fistula (AVF) generates a major hemodynamic shift. Connecting a high-resistance artery to a low-resistance vein increases venous return, lowers systemic vascular resistance, and forces the heart to sustain a chronic high-flow load. Many patients adapt, but those with limited reserve can decompensate quickly with dyspnea, edema, tachycardia, and a warm, high-output […]