arteriovenoosiset

Arteriovenous fistula, often abbreviated as AVF, is a surgical connection between an artery and a vein, typically created to provide an alternative blood flow pathway. This procedure is commonly used in the field of hemodialysis to manage end-stage renal disease. The fistula is created by surgically joining an artery, usually the radial or femoral artery, to a vein, often the saphenous vein. The resulting connection allows blood to flow directly from the artery to the vein, bypassing the kidney.

The primary advantage of an arteriovenous fistula is its durability and low risk of thrombosis compared to other vascular access methods, such as catheters. This makes it a preferred choice for long-term dialysis access. However, the creation of an AVF requires surgical intervention and carries risks, including infection, bleeding, and the potential for complications related to the surgical site.

Post-operative care is crucial for the success of an AVF. Patients are typically advised to keep the fistula site clean and dry, avoid activities that may cause trauma to the site, and follow a specific diet to promote healing. Regular monitoring is essential to ensure the fistula remains patent and functional.

In some cases, an arteriovenous fistula may need to be revised or replaced if it becomes occluded or non-functional. This can be done through a process called arteriovenous graft (AVG) creation, where a synthetic graft is used to create a new connection between the artery and vein.