Dialysis Access

Dialysis access is the entrance way to the blood stream and just lies beneath the skin to allow an efficient and safe access point for dialysis. It is usually in the arm or leg.

There are three kinds of vascular access for dialysis: arteriovenous (AV) fistula; an AV graft; and a venous catheter. The AV fistula is best for long-term dialysis. It’s created by connecting an artery directly to a vein, usually in the forearm. The procedure can be done under local anesthesia on an outpatient basis.