Abstract

Extended Follow-Up of an Endovascular Venous Anastomotic Connector for Arteriovenous Graft Creation in Hemodialysis: A Multicenter Study

Author(s): Ari Kramer, KMLST Moorthi, Lisa Grant, Terry Litchfield

Objective: Arteriovenous grafts (AVGs) are a key access option in hemodialysis but are
prone to venous stenosis and thrombosis, often necessitating frequent interventions.
The EndoForce endovascular connector offers a less traumatic alternative to traditional
sutured techniques. The purpose of this extended follow-up study is to evaluate the longterm
cumulative patency of the EndoForce connector.
Methods: In this multicenter follow-up study, 37 participants from the original pivotal
trial who underwent at least one intervention were observed for an additional six months
from the last intervention. Outcomes included cumulative patency and intervention rates
beyond the initial study period.
Results: Thirteen of 37 participants underwent 22 additional interventions (1.32
interventions per patient-year). Cumulative patency 180 days into the extended followup
was 78.4%. All interventions were successful; no device-related complications such as
migration, kinking, or fracture were reported.
Conclusion: These findings suggest that the EndoForce endovascular connector supports
durable AVG patency and a low intervention burden, reinforcing its potential role in
modern end stage renal disease (ESRD) vascular access planning.
Clinical Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02532621.