AV Fistula Interventions
Fistula – Angioplasty, Stenting, Thrombolysis, Thrombectomy
A fistula or AV graft is a surgical connection between an artery and a vein in your arm used to perform kidney dialysis. When there is decreased blood flow in a graft or fistula your physician may perform an angioplasty with or without the placement of a stent.
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When is an intervention required?
When a fistula or graft becomes clogged or narrowed, it can prevent a patient from getting adequate dialysis. Our doctor at Houston Vein and Vascular can use minimally invasive procedures to restore blood flow and fix the dialysis access.
Commonly performed interventions to address issues with a fistula or a graft include:
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Angioplasty – using a small balloon in the fistula or graft and stretching the narrowed area open
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Stenting – placing a metal scaffold to keep the narrowed vessel or graft open
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Thrombolysis – injecting clot buster medication to dissolve the blood clot
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Thrombectomy – mechanically removing or macerating the blood clot
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What to expect from the interventions?
Patients generally arrive an hour or so prior to the procedure. During the procedure your doctor will use xray and ultrasound to perform interventions necessary to fix your AV fistula thus allowing you to undergo successful dialysis.
These procedures are typically performed in our office and lasts about an hour. Afterwards you will rest in a recovery area for a while before you are sent home or to dialysis.
Most patients can resume normal activities the next day; however you should avoid lifting heavy objects and strenuous exercise for at least 24 hours. If you notice any signs of pain or bleeding where the catheter was inserted, you should lie down and apply pressure to the site and call your physician.
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To schedule an appointment, please contact our office, Houston Vein and Vascular at 832-350-7260.