AV Fistula Procedure

Patients with end stage renal disease requiring dialysis will need to have a dialysis access placed. An AV (arterio-venous) fistula is the type of dialysis access that is considered the best choice because it generally lasts longer and has fewer problems.

An AV fistula is a surgical connection made between an artery and a vein, created by a vascular specialist. AV fistula is commonly placed on an arm, however some cases it can be placed in the leg.

AV fistula allows blood to flow directly from an artery to a vein this increases blood pressure in the vein and as a result the vein enlarges allowing it to deliver adequate amount of blood required for hemodialysis treatment.

ADVANTAGES OF AN AV FISTULA

• Remains functional longer than other forms of vascular access
• No synthetic material implanted in your body
• Provides the necessary blood flow needed for effective dialysis, which may help to decrease treatment time
• Low risk of infection
• Less prone to clotting than other dialysis access options
• Can be Created in an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia
• Fast return to your daily activities

HOW IS AN AV FISTULA CREATED?

A nephrologist or a vascular surgeon will evaluate your blood vessels to ensure that they are healthy and fit for AV fistula. This is preceded by thorough physical examination, other test such ultrasound, and possibly an angiogram to determine the size and depth of your arteries and veins are also mandatory.

These tests will determine whether or not your blood vessels are able to support an AV fistula. These tests are often referred to as “vessel mapping.” Once it has been determined that you are a candidate for an AV fistula, an appointment will be scheduled for the AV fistula creation.

To create an AV fistula, the vascular specialist will administer local anesthesia to the chosen access site. Next, your physician will make a small incision, allowing access to the selected arteries and veins. A surgical connection is made between an artery and a vein. This connection causes blood to flow from the artery into the vein, this increased blood flow through the vein results in enlargement of the vein and thickening of the vein walls. After the AV fistula has been created, it will take several weeks, in some cases a month or longer, for the fistula to mature to the point where it will be able to be used for your hemodialysis treatments.

Commonly AV fistula preparation doesn’t require admission as an inpatient as it can be done in an outpatient setting and patient sent home same day.

Following AV fistula preparation the patient will be advised to keep the access arm elevated to reduce swelling and pain at the access site. Your physician may also prescribe a painkiller to help manage any post-operative pain.

HOW BARAKA DIALYSIS CAN HELP YOU

The interventional specialists and vascular surgeons at BARAKA DIALYSIS CENTRE are highly skilled in dialysis access creation and management. We can perform the AV fistula creation in our center and help you manage your fistula when needed while you are on dialysis.