Types of dialysis access
There are two types of vascular access for dialysis:
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Permanent access
Hemodialysis: Central Venous Catheter
Arteriovenous Fistula (AVF)
This involves a surgical procedure to connect the vein and the artery in the patient's arm to create a larger vein and thicker vein walls. It usually
Hemodialysis: Arteriovenous Graft
takes at least six weeks before it can be used.
Hemodialysis: Arteriovenous Fistula Arteriovenous Graft (AVG) This is required in cases where the patient's veins are too small or there are no veins suitable for dialysis. The ideal vein size is 2-2.5 millimeters in diameter. The surgeon uses an AV graft to connect the artery and the vein. The access can be used for dialysis from 1-3 weeks after surgery depending on the type of the graft. Compared to AV fistula, AV graft has a shorter lifespan and more complications and is more costly.
Peritoneal Dialysis
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Permcath or Tunneled cu ed venous catheter Semi-permanent access
This type of catheter involves the insertion of a dialysis catheter into a vein for long-term access. Designed to be tunneled underneath the skin, it also has a small cuff that helps to secure it in place and creates a barrier to prevent infection.
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