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 continues to be used in daily hemodialysis care across Asia. In this user experience video from RSU Aulia Jakarta, Indonesia, a dialysis nurse and hemodialysis patients share their real-world observations after using FIRAPY as part of vascular access care. Their comments highlight how FIRAPY may support nursing workflow, help manage low blood flow rate during dialysis, and provide a warm and comfortable treatment experience for patients.
On 9–10 February 2026, FIRAPY joined Unex Corporation (Japan) at World Health Expo – WHX Dubai 2026, held at the Dubai Exhibition Centre, Expo City Dubai. This was FIRAPY’s first time participating in WHX Dubai, marking an important step in expanding our presence in the Middle East and surrounding regions. WHX Dubai (World Health Expo) is one of the region’s most important healthcare exhibitions, bringing together thousands of healthcare professionals, industry leaders, and innovators from more than 100 countries. The event combines a large-scale trade show with conferences and forums that highlight new technologies, clinical best practices, and emerging models of care.
Authors: Hamed Ali Ahmad Alshahri, Omaima Farah Al Jabal Published in: World Advances in Renal Medicine Vol.1, No.3 (2025) Read the full article
