Surgical & Heart Information
AV Fistula What is an AV Fistula? An arteriovenous (AV) fistula is an abnormal passageway between an artery and a vein. It usually occurs in the arms or legs but can occur anywhere in the body, including the brain. An AV fistula is usually created surgically to provide access for hemodialysis in people with end-stage kidney failure. Connecting the artery to the vein causes more blood to flow into the vein. As a result, the vein grows larger and stronger, making repeated needle insertions for hemodialysis treatments easier. An AV fistula operation usually takes 1 to 2 hours, but the fistula will need 2 to 6 weeks of healing before it's ready for use in dialysis. What are some of the risks of an AV fistula? As with any surgery there are always risks. Infection is a possibility and heavy bleeding could occur if the fistula comes apart. In addition, if the vessel closes up or gets clogged and can't be reopened, a second fistula will have to be installed. Nevertheless, without the fistula and the cleansing dialysis it enables, a build-up of waste products and toxins within the body will eventually prove fatal. Top
The information provided is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be used as a substitute for an informed discussion with your physician. If you have further questions regarding this procedure, please write them down so your physician or other healthcare professionals can answer them for you. |
