What criteria should we use to evaluate a surgeon doing vascular access?
It is important that the vascular access surgeon be willing to participate as a member of a multidisciplinary vascular access team and possess not only the skills and judgment required for this highly specialized and demanding area of surgery, but also the ability to perform the entire repertory of AV fistula procedures, including vein transpositions. The surgeon treating a hemodialysis patient should also possess a caring attitude and the willingness to be available and devote the time and attention needed to provide the patient with the best evaluation and optimal surgery in a timely manner and based on a long-term plan. In the absence of a medical contra-indication, the surgeon should be dedicated to providing a native AV fistula as the optimal access for every patient, where feasible.
