Comparing two types of vascular access for older adults on hemodialysis

A Randomized Trial of Fistula vs. Graft Arteriovenous Vascular Access in Older Adults with End-Stage Kidney Disease on Hemodialysis: The AV ACCESS Trial

['FUNDING_R01'] · WAKE FOREST UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES · NIH-10912828

This study is looking at how well two types of surgeries for getting blood access work for older adults with severe kidney disease who need dialysis, to see which one helps them feel better and be happier with their treatment.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorWAKE FOREST UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES (nih funded)
Locations1 site (WINSTON-SALEM, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10912828 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the effectiveness of two surgical options for vascular access in older adults with end-stage kidney disease who require hemodialysis. It compares arteriovenous fistulas and grafts to determine which method leads to better health outcomes and patient satisfaction. The study involves a randomized trial with 262 participants aged 65 and older, focusing on their experiences and clinical results. By gathering data from multiple centers, the research aims to provide robust evidence to guide treatment decisions for this vulnerable population.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 65 and older who are starting hemodialysis and require surgical vascular access.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 65 or those who do not require hemodialysis will not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved vascular access strategies that enhance the health and quality of life for older adults undergoing hemodialysis.

How similar studies have performed: Previous pilot trials have shown feasibility in enrolling older adults for this type of research, indicating potential for success in larger studies.

Where this research is happening

WINSTON-SALEM, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.