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 long-term 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 follow-up 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.