Vascular access

Vascular Access

A permacath, a type of central venous catheter used for dialysis.

Vascular access refers to a means of accessing the bloodstream through the blood vessels, typically for medical procedures such as hemodialysis. It is a critical component in the management of patients with chronic kidney disease who require dialysis.

Types of Vascular Access

There are several types of vascular access used in dialysis:

Central Venous Catheters

Central venous catheters (CVCs) are often used for short-term access. They are inserted into a large vein, usually in the neck, chest, or groin. A common type of CVC used in dialysis is the Permacath, which is tunneled under the skin to reduce the risk of infection.

Arteriovenous Fistula

Diagram of a radiocephalic arteriovenous fistula.

An arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is created by surgically connecting an artery to a vein, usually in the arm. This connection allows for increased blood flow and is considered the best long-term option for dialysis access due to its lower risk of infection and clotting.

Arteriovenous Graft

Illustration of an arteriovenous graft.

An arteriovenous graft (AVG) involves using a synthetic tube to connect an artery to a vein. This option is used when a patient's veins are not suitable for creating a fistula. While AVGs can be used sooner after placement than AVFs, they have a higher risk of infection and clotting.

Complications

Complications associated with vascular access can include infection, clotting, and stenosis. Regular monitoring and maintenance are essential to ensure the functionality and longevity of the access.

Related Pages

• Dialysis
• Chronic kidney disease
• Hemodialysis

References

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  Vascular access
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  Radiocephalic fistula
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  Dialysis process
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  Arteriovenous graft