Risk factors

In addition to certain genetic or congenital conditions, the following risk factors may make you more likely to develop an arteriovenous fistula:

• Being female
• Cardiac catheterization, especially if the procedure involves blood vessels in your groin
• Certain medications, including some blood thinners (anticoagulants) and medications used to control bleeding (anti-fibrinolytics)
• High blood pressure
• High body mass index (BMI)
• Older age