A system (10) and method (100) for increasing the speed of blood and wall shear stress (WSS) in a peripheral vein (30) for a sufficient period of time to result in a persistent increase in the overall diameter and lumen diameter of the vein (30) is provided. The method (100) includes pumping blood at a desired rate and pulsatility. The pumping is monitored and adjusted, as necessary, to maintain the desired blood speed, WSS and pulsatility in the peripheral vein (30) in order to optimize the rate and extent of dilation of the peripheral vein (30).
