How do they put a fistula in your arm?

A fistula (also called an arteriovenous fistula or A-V fistula) is made by joining an artery and a vein under the skin in your arm. When the artery and vein are joined, the pressure inside the vein increases, making the walls of the vein stronger. The stronger vein can then receive the needles used for hemodialysis.

How long does it take for arm fistula to heal?

Depending on the person, it can take several weeks to several months for an AV fistula to heal and mature. In the United States, the time from AV fistula creation until first use averages 133 days, or approximately 4 months. As it heals and matures, the appearance of your fistula will probably change.

Is arm fistula surgery painful?

Discomfort is minimal and you may even fall asleep during the 1 to 2 hour-long procedure. The surgical incision is usually only 2 to 4 inches long. Generally you are able to return home later that same day. The fistula usually requires from 8 to 12 weeks for the veins to dilate prior to initial use.

What is arm fistula for dialysis?

An arteriovenous fistula, or AVF, is a vessel that is formed by joining a vein to an artery in your arm during an operation to form an accessible blood vessel that gives increased flows of blood that are adequate for dialysis.

What can I expect after dialysis fistula surgery?

It is normal to experience some pain and swelling over the next several days. For the first few days after your access surgery, keep your arm elevated on pillows whenever possible. Be sure to keep your arm above the level of your heart to control swelling and ease any discomfort you may be feeling.

Can you shower with a fistula?

If you have a graft or fistula, keep the dressing dry for the first 2 days. You can bathe or shower as usual after the dressing is removed. If you have a central venous catheter, you must keep the dressing dry at all times. Cover it with plastic when you shower.

How much weight can you lift with a fistula?

Activity After Hemodialysis Fistula or Graft Access Surgery Avoid lifting anything that weighs more than 10 pounds for the next three days. Ten pounds is about the weight of two Yellow Pages telephone books or a gallon of milk. Lifting may put a strain on the incision before it has had time to heal.

How long does it take to recover from fistula dialysis?

This usually takes around six weeks, but it can take more, or less, time in some cases.

Can you shower with AV fistula?

Is fistula surgery a major surgery?

Fistulotomy. Surgery for an anal fistula usually takes around an hour, but a person will need to spend some time in the hospital before and after to prepare and recover. If the fistula is small and shallow, a person may only need a local anesthetic during the procedure.