At The Iowa Clinic's Vascular Access Center, we understand that managing your dialysis access is vital to ensuring effective and comfortable dialysis treatments. Our specialized team is here to provide comprehensive Dialysis Access Maintenance services, including Fistula and Graft Thrombectomy, to support your health journey.
What is Dialysis Access Maintenance?
Dialysis access is a permanent or temporary opening in a blood vessel that allows for the removal of waste products from the blood. It is used by people who have kidney failure and need dialysis to survive. Dialysis Access Maintenance involves the regular care and monitoring of your dialysis access site, which can be either a fistula or a graft. Fistulas and grafts are surgically created vascular access points that allow for the safe and efficient removal and return of blood during dialysis treatment.
Symptoms of Dialysis Access Issues:
Dialysis access can become damaged or blocked over time. This can make it difficult or impossible to get the blood flowing through the access, which can prevent you from receiving dialysis.
If your dialysis access is not working properly, you may experience the following symptoms:
- Swelling or tenderness around the access site
- A decrease in the amount of blood that can be removed during dialysis
- Coldness or discoloration of the arm or leg with the access
- Reduced dialysis effectiveness
Treatments and Procedures related to Dialysis Access:
Dialysis Access Evaluation
Our expert team will perform a thorough assessment of your dialysis access to identify any potential issues and determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your unique needs.
Fistula/Graft Thrombectomy
There are two main types of dialysis access: fistulas and grafts. Fistulas are created by joining an artery and a vein together. Grafts are made from synthetic material and are placed between an artery and a vein. Dialysis Thrombectomy is a specialized procedure aimed at clearing any blockages within your fistula or graft.
Thrombosis occurs when a blood clot forms, obstructing the normal flow of blood. When this happens in your dialysis access, it can lead to complications and hinder the effectiveness of your dialysis treatments.
Access Site Monitoring
Regular check-ups are essential to detect any early signs of access dysfunction.
Patient Education
We believe that informed patients play an active role in their healthcare. Our team will provide you with detailed information on dialysis access care, lifestyle recommendations, and tips to maintain optimal vascular health.