If your kidneys fail, you will need to start dialysis to do the job of your kidneys unless you receive a kidney transplant. Before you can start dialysis, a surgeon will need to create what is called a vascular access. A vascular access is where the dialysis machine will connect to your bloodstream. Show During dialysis treatments, the dialysis machine cleans your blood then moves it back into your body. The three most common types of vascular access for hemodialysis are an artery vein fistula, an artery vein graft and a catheter. Artery vein (AV) fistulaAn artery vein fistula (AV fistula) is a connection between your artery and your vein that is created by a surgeon. This surgery creates a large blood vessel that has lots of blood flowing through it. An AV fistula is usually located in your arm between your wrist and elbow. During dialysis treatments, the technician inserts needles into the AV fistula to get access to your bloodstream. Artery vein (AV) graftAn artery vein graft (AV graft) is a soft rubbery tube that a surgeon implants (i.e., surgically places) into your arm. An AV graft is usually implanted in your arm but may also be implanted in your leg or chest. During dialysis treatments, the technician inserts needles into the tube to get access to your bloodstream. CatheterA catheter (or venous catheter) is a tube placed into a vein, usually in your neck or upper chest. Catheters are usually temporary and used only for a short time. For example, you may need a catheter if you need dialysis right away and the surgery to create an AV fistula or AV graft is still healing. AV fistula and AV graft are used for permanent, long-term access to your bloodstream, and can last for years. AV fistulas and grafts are under your skin, so they are less likely to cause infections and blood clots than catheters. Other types of vascular access devicesA HeRO (Hemodialysis Reliable Outflow) device is for people on dialysis who have problems with their AV fistula or AV graft. It allows more blood to flow in and out of the body compared to a catheter. There are other types of vascular access, such as a PICC line or IV, that are not used for dialysis. Which kind of vascular access is best?AV fistulas are considered the best kind of vascular access because they:
Why is it important to care for my vascular access?If you are on dialysis, your vascular access allows you to get this lifesaving treatment. Taking care of your vascular access will keep it healthy and free of problems that can disrupt your dialysis treatments–such as infections or blood clots. How should I take care of my vascular access?Ask your dialysis care team or vascular access nurse (a specialist trained in vascular access care) to teach you how to take care of your vascular access. If you notice any signs of infection (such as redness or swelling) or any problems with your vascular access, contact your doctor, nurse or dialysis center right away. Here are some tips to help you care for your vascular access: Caring for your AV fistula or AV graftTo keep your AV fistula or graft working well: Keep it clean at all times
Check it every day
Be careful with it
Use your other arm for medical tests
Caring for your catheterYour doctor will give you a prescription for supplies you willneed to care for your catheter. You can get these at a pharmacy or medical supply store. To care for your catheter: Keep it clean, dry and covered
Take care of it
Check it every day
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