Dialysis access for renal failure patients can be a challenging field. At Yarra Vascular Surgeons, we specialise in dialysis access surgery and recognise and maintain that a truly multi-disciplinary approach is vital for this complex disease. We foster a strong relationship with our kidney specialist (nephrologist) colleagues to assist in determining the optimal mode and method of renal replacement therapy for the individual.
- Arteriovenous fistula or graft – a surgically created connection between the artery and the vein, that enables repetitive needling for repetitive withdrawal and injection of blood for arteriovenous dialysis
- Tunnelled catheters – a surgically inserted tube (‘Perm Cath’ or similar) into a large vein that allows repetitive withdrawal and injection of blood for arteriovenous dialysis. This is typically in one of the large veins of the neck (jugular vein)
- Peritoneal dialysis catheter – a surgically inserted tube (‘Tenckhoff’ catheter or similar) into the abdominal cavity that allows access for peritoneal dialysis
We place arteriovenous fistulas on a regular surveillance plan as they often need repeated procedures to maintain good flows for efficient dialysis. These procedures can usually be performed minimally invasively through endovascular techniques.
