Dialysis Access

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Arteriovenous (AV) Fistula Placement 

· Connects an artery and a vein most often in your arm.

· Increase blood flow between the connected artery and vein.

· Considered best option for dialysis access.

· Provides dependable dialysis access with low risk of infection.

· Tends to last longer than other types of dialysis access.

Fistulogram with Angioplasty and Stenting

· Locates narrowed section of vein due to long-term treatment causing lining of vessels to  thicken.

· Uses angioplasty (balloon catheter) to expand the blood vessel.

· Uses stent to hold vessel open when necessary.

When preparing for dialysis access surgery, the Institute will provide detailed instructions that will include information regarding fasting and the stoppage of certain medications. 

It is an outpatient surgery; therefore, a driver will need to be available for transport.

Following the procedure, care instructions, such as avoiding tight clothes, sleeping suggestions, and avoiding lifting heavy objects, will be given.