<p>ABS TRACT Objective: The aim of this study is to share our experience in creating arteriovenous fistulas</p><p>(AVF) for hemodialysis. Material and Methods: The study included 143 AVF cases performed</p><p>on 131 patients between October 2010 and October 2013. The cases were retrospectively examined</p><p>in a one-year surveillance period for early and midterm postoperative results. Results: Among all, 51.9</p><p>% of the patients were malse (n=68), with a mean age of 55±12 years. In those141 procedures, 32</p><p>(24.4 %) were performed on the right arm, and 99 (75.6%) were performed on the left arm. Basilic,</p><p>cephalic and antecubital veins comprised 3 (2.3%), 119 (90.8%) and 9 (6.9%) cases, respectively. Venous</p><p>anastomosis was carried out in radial arteries in 98 cases (74.8 %), and in brachial arteries in 33</p><p>cases (25.2%). The patency rates were 98.5% on the tenth day, 97.7 % after 6 months, and 96.9 %</p><p>after 12 months. The mean flow rate through the fistulas was 661±34 ml/min after 12 months. Conclusion:</p><p>Identification of the sites of anastomosis through preoperative vascular Doppler ultrasonography</p><p>at the most distal locations where target arteries and veins are wider than 2 mm, and</p><p>consideration of the possibility of atherosclerosis or thrombus may increase the success rate of AVFs.</p><p>A murmur or thrill indicates success of the AVF procedure. Venous dilatation with low pressure</p><p>using physiological saline prior to anastomosis may increase the chance to obtain a thrill.</p><p>Key Words: Arteriovenous fistula; renal dialysis; kidney failure, chronic</p>