AV Fistula: The Lifeline for Lasting Dialysis Access.
The Cornerstone of Dialysis Care.
Types of AV Fistula
Brachiocephalic Fistula
Heterogeneous reconstruction of the surgery performed associated brachial artery and cephalic vein, usually occupying the upper region of the body arm and is generally preferred when the radial artery is unamenable.
Transposed Fistula
A transposed vein refers to instances where a vein is moved/ transposed with surgery to lie more on the skin’s surface for easy access.
Radiocephalic Fistula
The most popular form of AV fistula, which is achieved by linking the radial at the forearm with the cephalic vein.
Benefits of AV Fistula
Longevity
Compared to other methods of gaining access to dialysis, AV fistulas offer relatively more extended periods of patency, with some functioning efficiently several years and even decades down the line.
Infection
Because AV fistulas are created from veins, and the patient’s blood vessels, it has higher chances of not getting infected than a synthetic graft or catheter.
Improved Blood Circulation
Thanks to the high flow rates achieved with the use of AV fistulas, patients are able to undergo more intensive bouts of dialysis, which in turn enhances their health.
Complications and Risks
Despite the fact that AV fistulas may be deemed the best method available for dialysis, the patient still runs some risks. Here are some of them
Stenosis
In myself, within the fistula, ihreinen stenosis occurs. As a result, this can develop a clot or scarring of the grafted vein. Hence, reduction of blood-affected dialysis requires some treatment accords.
Thrombosis
This is a common condition where the fistula becomes occluded by blood clots, hence blocking the flow of blood which might need repair surgery or a new fistula.
Aneurysms
The anatomy site of the AV cannula is usually punctured more than once during CCA, and this protracts the risk of development of an aneurysm.
Steal Syndrome
There are rare cases in which, because of the use of the AV fistula, too little blood reaches the hand. This leads to a condition called Ischemia, where blood flow is very limited to the specific area, giving rise to pains, numbness, and possibly tissue death.
AV Fistula Care
The patient and healthcare providers must take reasonable care and monitor the course of the AV fistula for it to last long and work properly. Patients should:
Take care of the area of the insertion person or polysulfone: The site of implantation undergoes the risk of infection, and this is a way to help cope with it.
Witness symptoms of the heated area where the fistula was created: Skin color changes such as redness or yellow pus on the area should inform a physician immediately.
Feel the “thrill”: A patient should feel a buzzing or throbbing sensation as if there is a ‘buzz’ at the site of the fistula. This means that blood is circulating adequately. If this craving is absent, that could be bad news.
