Dialysis Access
How are Interventional Radiologists involved in Dialysis Access?
The AV fistulas and AV grafts tend to narrow over time. Scar tissue builds up in the fistulas and grafts causing the flow to decrease. Ultrasound is used to identify a decrease in blood flow.
Interventional Radiologists can keep a close eye on the graft or fistula, and if scar tissue builds up, treatment is painless and minimally invasive. If the scar tissue is not detected and treated it can lead to complete blockage and clotting of the graft/fistula.
Interventional Radiologists are also experts at re-opening clotted/blocked fistulas and grafts, although we prefer to keep close follow up so we can make sure that it doesn’t get to this point.
You can establish dialysis access one of four ways:
- A tunneled catheter in your neck.
- AV Fistula, vascular surgeon will take a piece of vein from your leg or arm then sew it into a nearby artery.
- An AV graft, if your veins are too small for an AV fistula a graft is used by Interventional Radiologists. Instead of using the body’s own blood vessel a prosthetic graft is sewn between an artery and vein in your arm or leg.
- Peritoneal Dialysis, a small tube (Cannula) is placed in your abdomen to allow the use of the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) to filter your blood.
The information contained on the VIPhysicians website is not intended, and should not be relied upon, as a substitute for medical advice or treatment. It is very important that individuals with specific medical problems or questions consult with their doctor or primary care physician.
The first step in order to clean and filter your blood if your kidneys fail is establishing dialysis access.
The link is formed using the body’s own natural tissue & blood vessels (joins existing artery to vein).
This ultrasound procedure is performed by Interventional Radiologists to see your veins & arteries. Vessel mapping will help your doctor determine the best place for Dialysis Access.
The best place for dialysis access will vary from patient to patient. There are multiple factors to consider including; risk of infection, transportation, maintenance, among many others. For example, Peritoneal Dialysis can be a convenient option for a patient who wants to stay home, however this access type requires several exchanges, and the tube can become clogged. The type of dialysis: Peritoneal Dialysis or Hemodialysis will also factor into the best place for access. Therefore, you should always consult a healthcare professional or your primary care physician to discuss treatment options for you.
Yes, to schedule a consultation or for more information about Dialysis Access please call 602-246-8818 or check out our General Inquiries page.
Have questions?
To learn more about how our physicians can help you, contact us directly (602) 200-9339
