What graft connects the radial artery to the median cubital, basilic or cephalic vein and can be straight or tapered?

• A. PTFE Loop Graft
• B. Autogenous Fistula
• C. Dacron Graft
• D. PTFE Straight Graft

Answer: (D)

In hemodialysis access, a graft is used when autogenous fistulas aren’t feasible, and the graft type matters based on material and configuration. A PTFE straight graft is a prosthetic conduit that directly connects the radial artery to a superficial vein such as the median cubital, basilic, or cephalic vein. It can be straight or tapered at the venous end to better match the vein’s diameter, which helps promote patency and reduce flow disturbances at the anastomosis. The loop graft option would create a looped configuration instead of a straight path; an autogenous fistula uses the patient’s own vessels rather than a prosthetic graft; and a Dacron graft uses a different material. Therefore, the description fits a PTFE Straight Graft.