What is an AV fistula and what is its purpose?

An arteriovenous (AV) fistula is a connection, made by a vascular surgeon, of an artery to a vein. Provides good blood flow for dialysis. Lasts longer than other types of access. Is less likely to get infected or cause blood clots than other types of access.

Which arm is best for AV fistula?

An AV fistula is typically created in the non-dominant arm.

Is AV fistula a high risk surgery?

Objective. The creation of an arteriovenous fistula (AVF) for hemodialysis access is a low-risk procedure. It is often time sensitive, as avoidance of central venous catheters (CVCs) and their complications is paramount.

What is an AV fistula in the brain?

An arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is an abnormal connection between an artery and a vein. When there is a fistula in the brain, we call it an arteriovenous malformation (AVM). When a fistula occurs near the dura (the covering material of the brain), it is a dural arteriovenous fistula.

How does AV fistula cause heart failure?

When a large proportion of arterial blood is shunted from the left-sided circulation to the right-sided circulation via the fistula, the increase in preload can lead to increased cardiac output. Over time, the demands of an increased workload may lead to cardiac hypertrophy and eventual heart failure.

Why do people get AV fistula?

Causes of arteriovenous fistulas include: Injuries that pierce the skin. An arteriovenous fistula may result from a gunshot or stab wound that occurs on a part of the body where a vein and artery are side by side. Congenital arteriovenous fistulas.

Is AV fistula surgery painful?

How is the AV fistula procedure performed? A surgeon usually performs the procedure in the operating room. You receive a local anesthetic (numbing medicine) at the proposed site along with IV sedation to relax you. Discomfort is minimal and you may even fall asleep during the 1 to 2 hour-long procedure.

Which fistula is best?

Use of the arteriovenous (AV) fistula for dialysis is considered by far to be the best option. In comparison to other types of access, the AVF dialysis has lower complication rates, is less prone to infection or blood clotting and allows for a greater blood flow.

How long does it take to recover from AV fistula surgery?

Your wound will take 10-14 days to heal. We advise that the dressing stay dry for at least three days before being changed. You will be given several spare dressings.

Can a fistula cause a stroke?

Pulmonary arteriovenous fistula (PAVF) is a congenital or acquired vascular malformation that is associated with several neurological complications including, strokes, transient ischemic attacks, seizures, and migraines.