Dialysis Access Options

Fistula Surgery and Percutaneous Fistula Creation

The arteriovenous or AV fistula involves a direct connection between an artery and a vein. The connection is made surgically underneath the skin and allows for adequate blood flow during your dialysis treatments. This increased blood flow leads to larger and stronger veins and better results from your dialysis treatment.

Pros:

• Permanent access
• Best overall performance
• Less chance of infection
• Can last many years with proper care
• Increased blood flow
• Fewer access related problems

Cons:

• May not be possible for all patients
• Requires temporary access until fistula matures
• Takes approx. 6-8 weeks to mature
• May fail to mature

Graft

A graft is a direct connection of a synthetic tube from an artery to a vein. The tube acts like a natural vein allowing blood to flow through the access.

Pros:

• Permanent access
• Durable synthetic tube can be safely accessed multiple times
• Connection made surgically under skin can be used in approx. 2-4 weeks

Cons:

• May not be possible for all patients
• Increased potential for clotting
• Increased potential for infection

Catheter Placement

A catheter is a tube inserted into a vein in the neck or chest directly into your heart and the extension or limbs hang outside your chest or neck. The insertion site is covered and must be kept sterile, clean and dry. Catheters are temporary for most dialysis patients.

Pros:

• Can be used immediately after placement 

Cons:

• Temporary option for most dialysis patients
•  No showers or swimming Higher rate of infection and failure
• Prolonged use can lead to stenosis and/or blood vessel trauma

PVG Provides Solutions for Better Dialysis Care

Learn more about dialysis access education and management by clicking on the links below:

Dialysis Access Education Dialysis Access Management Vascular Access Management Program

If you would like to schedule an appointment at Preferred Vascular Group to have a consult with a Board-Certified physician or would like to have one of our highly trained care providers reach out to you, please click on a button below: