Arteriovenous Fistula
Synonyms
Aneurysm, Arteriovenous
Arteriovenous Aneurysm
Arteriovenous Fistulas
Fistula, Arteriovenous
Fistulas, Arteriovenous
An abnormal direct communication between an artery and a vein without passing through the CAPILLARIES. An A-V fistula usually leads to the formation of a dilated sac-like connection, arteriovenous aneurysm. The locations and size of the shunts determine the degree of effects on the cardiovascular functions such as BLOOD PRESSURE and HEART RATE.
See Also