Anatomy
Generally speaking, what is Ellipsys’ primary outflow target?
Cephalic
BONUS
Name an Ellipsys procedure benefit.
note - host has list, seven in total.
Tell me about the angle of cannulation for an Ellipsys fistula compared to a surgical fistula.
Use a shallow angle of entry for the needle on Ellipsys AVFs (they are less evident, but NOT deeper than normal surgical AVFs)
Land the plan, not diving into the pool
5-20 degrees
Name the vessel a patient has to have to be a candidate for Ellipsys.
Perforator
BONUS x 2
Which physicians can perform Ellipsys?
What should you do you when you see flashback when cannulation an Ellipsys fistula?
While inserting the needle, do not advance more than 1/8” after getting flash.
Where is the Ellipsys anastomosis?
2 finger widths below the elbow crease
How long do most Ellipsys fistulas take to mature?
6-8 weeks
Why do we recommend using a 3 or 5 CC syringe to draw from the fistula?
Using a 3 or 5cc syringe to draw from the fistula during the initial few cannulations instead of a 10cc syringe can prevent collapse of the vein.
BONUS
Most patients are cannulated in which vein?
Name one of the four benefits of a Ellipsys pAVF as a moderate flow rate fistula with multiple outflow vessels.
note - judge has answers
What pump speeds are used?
Start with slow pump speeds (50-100mL/min) and advance by 50mL every minute until desired speed is reached
Start with 17ga needles @ 250 mL/min
Progress through 16ga to 15ga @ 450 mL/min
Most patients are cannulated in the cephalic vein. How else can Ellipsys patients be cannulated?
After the first year, how many procedures to Ellipsys patients have for maintenance annually?
Less than one time annually.
BONUS
Will the thrill feel the same?
The Thrill will be strongest in the antecubital region and the distal upper arm, and may be less evident than a surgical AVF.
Bonus