Gadolinium based contrast agents (GBCA) have been linked to the occurrence of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) in renal impaired patients. The exact interaction between the various different available formulations and occurrence of NSF is not completely understood, but has been postulated. This association has triggered public health advisory bodies to issue guidelines and best practice recommendations on its use. As a result, the reported incidence of NSF, as well as the published use of GBCA-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging in renal impairment, has seen a decline. Understanding of the events that led to these recommendations can increase clinical awareness and the implications of their usage. We present a review of published literature and a brief overview of practice recommendations, guidelines and manuals on contrast safety to aide everyday imaging practice.Teaching Points• Low risk gadolinium based contrast agents should be the choice in renal insufficiency.• Higher doses have been linked to NSF development. Doses should be as low as possible.• Clear documentation of date,dose and type of formulation used should be noted.• Post-scan dialysis should be arranged as soon as possible and feasible.• Pre-existing inflammatory state is a risk factor;liver insufficiency is not a contraindication.

Chapter 2. Surgical and endovascular interventions for promoting arteriovenous fistula maturation 2.1. We suggest using regional block anaesthesia rather than local anaesthesia for arteriovenous fistula creation in adults with end-stage kidney disease. (2C) 2.2. We suggest there is insufficient evidence to support endof-vein to side-of-artery over side-of-vein to side-ofartery anastomosis for arteriovenous fistula creation in adults with end-stage kidney disease (2C) peri-and postoperative care of AV fistulas and grafts ii3

This literature review shows that the HeRO graft is an acceptable option for complex dialysis patients who are catheter dependent. Owing to device availability, published data are predominantly North American and further longer-term studies in other populations may be necessary. In this challenging patient group, randomized controlled trials are required to allow comparisons with alternative access options.

Current literature reports DeBs as being safe and may convey some benefit in terms of improved rate of restenosis when used to treat AV access disease. However, this body of evidence is small and clinically heterogeneous. A large multicentre RCT may help to clarify the role of DeBs in the percutaneous treatment of AV HD access stenosis.