What is a fistulagram?
Fistulagrams are a valuable tool for assessing the condition of dialysis access and for planning surgery to repair or replace a fistula or graft.
A fistulagram allows your physician to evaluate the health and function of your arteriovenous fistula. An arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is a surgically created connection between an artery and a vein, commonly used for dialysis access. During a fistulagram, a contrast dye is injected into the fistula, enabling us to visualize its structure and identify any potential blockages, stenosis (narrowing), or other abnormalities.
Fistulagrams can be used to diagnose a number of problems with dialysis access, including:
- Narrowed blood vessels
- Blood clots
- Infections
- Leaks
Fistulagrams can also be used to plan surgery to repair or replace a fistula or graft.
What symptoms require a fistulagram?
- Decreased blood flow during dialysis sessions
- Swelling or tenderness at the fistula site
- Difficulty in creating a successful dialysis access
- Unexplained pain or discomfort around the fistula
If you experience any of these symptoms, a Fistulagram may be recommended to help diagnose and address the underlying issues, optimizing the performance of your arteriovenous fistula.
What should I expect during a fistulagram?
A fistulagram procedure uses x-rays to image a fistula or graft. Fistulagrams can help your doctor to assess the condition of your dialysis access and to identify any problems.
Fistulagrams are typically performed under local anesthesia. The doctor will make a small incision in the skin over the fistula or graft. A needle will then be inserted into the incision and a contrast dye will be injected into the blood vessel.
The contrast dye will make the blood vessels show up on the x-rays. This will allow the doctor to see the size, shape, and condition of the fistula or graft.
In some cases, you may need to stay in the hospital for a short time after a fistulagram. This is usually only necessary if you have any complications.
What are risks of a fistulagram?
Following a fistulagram, our team will work closely with you to provide the most appropriate treatments and interventions, addressing any issues identified during the procedure. Treatments may include angioplasty to open narrowed areas or thrombectomy to remove blood clots.
While a fistulagram is generally safe, there are some potential risks, such as allergic reactions to the contrast dye or slight bruising at the injection site. However, these risks are typically minimal and will be thoroughly discussed with you before the procedure.