After FIRAPY introduction in 2014, fistuloplasty decrease.
- The total numbers of fistuloplasty from 2011 to 2013 is 197.
- The total numbers of fistuloplasty from 2014 to 2016 is 156.
Reduction of 41 procedure, it’s 21% reduction of fistuloplasty.
FIRAPY reduce the need & frequency of Fistuloplasty
May 1, 2018
FIRAPY is a physical treatment utilizing infrared radiation with longer wavelengths than visible light. This energy, has applications in health promotion and wound healing. FIRAPY is delivered via a device with ceramic plates, placed above an arteriovenous fistula (AVF) during hemodialysis sessions. Studies suggest that FIR enhances blood flow and patency in AVFs, reduces pain from steal syndrome, and inhibits endothelial inflammation, addressing key factors in AVF stenosis and thrombosis.
A study at Raigmore Hospital, Inverness, highlighted FIRAPY's impact on reducing fistuloplasty frequency. Comparing data from 2011-2013 to 2014-2016, after FIRAPY was introduced, showed a 21% reduction in procedures. Individual cases demonstrated extended intervals between fistuloplasties following FIR initiation. Despite barriers like cost, staff training, and patient refusal, FIRAPY therapy proved effective, convenient, and cost-saving, reducing hospital stays for hemodialysis patients with AVF complications.
Patient Selection
- Poor maturation of AVF
- After first or requiring regular fistuloplasty
- Steal Syndrome
- Patients referred from weekly vascular MDT
Application of FIRAPY
- To be used on native AV fistulae only
- Fistula limb must be uncovered
- Applied during every dialysis session, 40 min duration
Result
Conclusion
- FIRAPY used on a regular basis does reduce the need for interventions.
- It is an easy and convenient mode of therapy.
- Cost effective.
- Leads to a reduction in in-patients stays for HD patients due to fistula complication.
Arthur: Dr Susan Stewart
Site: Raigmore Hospital, Inverness, UK
Presented at the 2017 BRS Conference.
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FIRAPY Medical Japan proudly participated in the 70th Annual Meeting of the Japanese Society for Dialysis Therapy (JSDT) , held in Osaka from June 27 to 29, 2025 . This year marked a major milestone for FIRAPY in Japan: a total of 11 FIRAPY-related research presentations were featured during the congress—showcasing growing academic interest in far-infrared therapy as a supportive, non-invasive treatment in dialysis care. represents a significant milestone in FIRAPY’s ongoing academic engagement in dialysis-related research.
FIRAPY and Taipei Veterans General Hospital co-published a study in JFMA showing improved cardiovascular and infection outcomes in peritoneal dialysis patients using far-infrared therapy.
