Comprehensive Dialysis Access Solutions at Vascular Health Center
Arterial Disease Specialists with Decades of Experience
Don’t let arterial disease stop you from doing what you love. As one of the top vascular groups in the East Bay, we use the latest technology to help you get out of pain and back to life faster. Our on-site vascular lab makes appointments even easier.
Dialysis Access Q & A
What is dialysis access?
Dialysis, also called hemodialysis, is a medical treatment for advanced kidney disease. You may need dialysis if your kidneys fail to perform their normal function of removing wastes and excess fluid from your blood.
In order to receive dialysis, you must first undergo a dialysis access procedure. This creates a way for the dialysis machine to access your blood vessels. The skilled surgeons at Vascular Surgery Medical Group specialize in dialysis access surgeries.
What are the different types of dialysis access procedures?
The team at Vascular Surgery Medical Group provides vascular access using a variety of approaches, including:
Arteriovenous (AV) fistula
An AV fistula involves connecting an artery and a vein directly, usually in your arm. This is often the preferred method for dialysis access because it allows for many years of use with minimal risk of infection.
However, an AV fistula isn’t possible for many people’s anatomy. Even when this approach is an option, the fistula takes weeks to months to mature enough for dialysis.
AV grafts
An AV graft connects an artery to a vein with a catheter, which is a soft plastic tube. Grafts require routine monitoring and upkeep, but they are a good option for people who aren’t good candidates for an AV fistula.
Venous catheter
This approach allows people who need dialysis right away to receive immediate treatment. The surgeon places a temporary catheter into a vein in the neck, chest, or upper leg. They can use this catheter for dialysis while a graft or fistula heals.
What should I expect from a dialysis access procedure?
First, your Vascular Surgery Medical Group provider performs a thorough physical exam and reviews your medical history. They consider your unique anatomy and the severity of your condition to determine the best approach to dialysis access for you.
Depending on your needs, you may get local, regional, or general anesthesia before surgery. Then, your surgeon carefully performs a fistula, graft, or catheter procedure, using minimally invasive surgical techniques whenever possible.
After the procedure, your surgeon provides you with detailed instructions on how to care for your wound. The time it takes before you can start dialysis depends on the type of access procedure you have, but may range from a few weeks to months.
If you need dialysis access, call Vascular Surgery Medical Group 510-357-4006, or book an appointment online today.
