Vascular Access for Hemodialysis (HD)

Overview

The kidneys conduct vital tasks that keep life going. They clean the blood on a constant basis, clearing away contaminants and harmonizing body chemistry. They also aid in the regulation of blood pressure and the amount of fluid exiting the body.

If the kidneys fail, either at the end stage of chronic kidney disease (referred to as end stage renal disease or ESRD) or as a result of an acute kidney injury, there are two options to take over the work of the non-functioning kidneys: dialysis, a group of alternatives to cleanse the blood outside of the kidneys, or transplantation of a healthy kidney into the body.

Adequate patient preparation for hemodialysis requires the timely development of an AV fistula. In compared to other vascular access types, an AV fistula is the most acceptable kind of vascular access for hemodialysis.