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Hemodialysis Access Hemodialysis is the most often used treatment for patients with End Stage Renal Failure also known as Kidney Failure. During hemodialysis treatment, a machine pumps blood from your body by way of a flexible, plastic tube, cleans it and then returns it to the body through a separate tube. In order to perform hemodialysis, an access must be created. An access is a site from which blood can be safely removed and returned to your body. There are two types of dialysis accesses. The first type involves the creation of a permanent connection between an artery and a vein under the skin. This procedure can be done in two different ways depending on the patient needs, they are called Fistulas and Graphs respectively. The second type is called a catheter and is used as a temporary access for dialysis treatment. The differences between your access options in greater detail:
Involves a direct connection between artery and vein. Fistulas are the preferred vascular access for long-term hemodialysis patients because they last longer than any other vascular access and are less prone to infections and clotting. Fistulas are typically placed in the forearm. If this is not possible an AV fistula is placed in the upper arm. Placement should preferably be placed in the non-dominant arm.
Graph Involves an indirect connection between artery and vein. Graphs are typically used on patients who are unable to have a fistula access due to small or weak veins. The graph is usually a soft synthetic tube that connect to an artery at one end and a vein at the other. The tube acts like a natural vein, allowing blood to flow through it.
Catheter Catheters are flexible, hollow tubes that allow blood to flow in and out of your body. This temporary access is typically used for up to three weeks. Catheters are typically used by patients needs immediate dialysis and has not had the procedure for a fistula or graph. There are several types of Contact us today to schedule a meeting with our doctors to help you decide what access options are best for you. |
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Fistula