At what angle should an AV fistula needle be inserted?

Inserting an AV fistula needle at an angle of 25-30 degrees is optimal for several reasons. This angle allows the needle to enter the skin and access the blood vessel without causing excessive trauma to the surrounding tissue. A steeper angle, such as 35-40 degrees or 45-50 degrees, could increase the risk of puncturing the back wall of the vessel, which can lead to complications like hematoma or infiltration.

Conversely, using too shallow an angle, such as 15-20 degrees, may not penetrate the vessel adequately, risking insufficient blood flow during dialysis treatment. By choosing an angle of 25-30 degrees, practitioners can maximize comfort for the patient while effectively accessing the AV fistula, ensuring both the safety and efficacy of the dialysis process. This balance is crucial for maintaining patient health and optimizing treatment outcomes.