Conslusion：Fir treatment increased AVF bloodflow rate and diameter
A single treatment, using Far Infrared light, increased bloodflow and AV-fistula diameter
May 30, 2014
Background and Aims
A native arterio-venous fistula (AVF) is considered the best alternative for access in patients on chronic hemodialysis(HD). However, its patency is often limited, because of complications, suchas stenosis, thrombosis and infection. Both surgical and medical methods have been evaluated to avoid often painful and costly interventions. In recent years a few studies from the same center have shown positive effects on blood flow and patency of repeated Far Infrared light(FIR) over the AVF.
The primary aim of this study was to evaluate if a single treatment, using FIR, may alter blood flow and AVF diameter.
The secondary aim of the study was to find if there were any changes in inflammatory markers.
Methods
Included were 30patients (17male and13 female) from a single center with a native AVF(end to side) located in the forearm, seetable1.
Ultrasound examination was performed by the same investigator in all patients over three measure points (artery, proximal and distal AVF), followed by one standard FIR treatment and thereafter a repeated examination.
| Variables | Data |
|---|---|
| Number of patients | 30 |
| Male/female ratio | 17 vrs 13 |
| Age, years | Mean 59,9 ±14,2 |
| Hemodialysis (yes/no) | 14 vrs 16 |
| Diabetes (yes/no) | 12 vrs 18 |
| Statine treatment (yes/no) | 12 vrs 18 |
| Anticoagulantia (yes/no) | 8 vrs 22 |
| EPO treatment (yes/no) | 20 vrs 10 |
| Uric acid lowering drug (yes/no) | 3 vrs 27 |
| Duration of fistula (months) | Mean 59,9 ± 42,3 |
| Haemoglobin, g/L | Mean 119.3 ±15,6 |
Table 1. Demographic data
Result
Results: The AVF flow rate increased after one FIR treatment, mean 2.1±1 m/s to 2.3±1, (p=0.001).
There was a slight increase of the arterial and venous flow, however not significant. The diameter of the AVF and artery did not change while the vein became wider 0.72cm ±0.2 to 0.74 ±0.2 ( p=0.034), see table 2.
The change in AVF flow was not different in those with or without diabetes mellitus, hemodialysis,
prescribed statins, hypertensive treatment, anticoagulation or between men and women. The mean
arterial pressure, systolic and diastolic blood pressure did not change. The pulse decreased from a mean of 72 ±9.8 beats/min to 68 ±9.4, (p=0.043). There was no significant change in inflammatory
markers. All patients had a functioning AVF after 30 days.
Author's:
- U. Hadimeri,
- A. Wärme,
- B. Stegmayr
Site:
- Skaraborg Hospital, Skövde, SWEDEN,
- Dept.of Nephrology, Skaraborg Hospital, Skövde, SWEDEN,
- Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umea University, Umea, SWEDEN
Presented at the 2014 ERA-EDTA Conference.
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We’re excited to announce that FIRAPY will be exhibiting at the 62nd ERA Congress in Vienna from June 4–7, 2025 ! 📍 Booth No.: X1.200 📅 June 4–7, 2025 📍 Austria Center Vienna This marks FIRAPY’s first European event since the COVID-19 pandemic , making it a special occasion for us to reconnect with partners and professionals across the continent. This year’s congress theme, “Game Changers in Nephrology,” aligns perfectly with FIRAPY’s mission to enhance dialysis care through innovative vascular access management. We look forward to seeing old friends and new collaborators who share our commitment to improving outcomes for dialysis patients. Whether you're already using FIRAPY or exploring its clinical potential, we warmly invite you to visit our booth and connect with our team. Let’s explore how far-infrared therapy is transforming the future of vascular access—together.
From February 28 to March 1, FIRAPY was honored to participate in Dialysis Weekend 2024 in Pattaya, Thailand, at the invitation of our valued partner K2 Thailand . This annual event, hosted by the Nephrology Society of Thailand ( event site ), is a key gathering for nephrology professionals across the country. This occasion marked a milestone for K2 Thailand, as their entire dialysis sales team made their first collective public appearance alongside FIRAPY. The team’s strong presence and professionalism drew significant attention from both clinicians and industry attendees, highlighting the growing interest in FIRAPY's role in dialysis care. A special highlight of the event was the visit from Dr. Suki , a well-known figure in the international nephrology community ( WCN profile ). Dr. Suki stopped by the K2 booth to personally show support and encouragement to the team, reinforcing the collaboration and shared mission of improving vascular access outcomes for dialysis patients.
Meet FIRAPY at Booth i1115a!
