AV Fistuloplasty
AV fistuloplasty is a minimally invasive procedure used to open a narrowed or blocked arteriovenous (AV) fistula, which is an access point for hemodialysis. A special balloon is guided to the blockage and inflated to stretch the blood vessel, restoring blood flow and improving the effectiveness of dialysis without the need for major surgery.
What it is
- Purpose: To fix a narrowed or blocked AV fistula, a surgically created connection between an artery and a vein used for hemodialysis.
- How it works: An interventional radiologist inserts a catheter with a balloon on its tip into the fistula.
- Procedure: The balloon is guided to the narrowed area and inflated to stretch the blood vessel, which relieves the blockage.
Why it's needed
- Over time, scarring or blood clots can form inside the fistula, leading to stenosis (narrowing).
- This narrowing can reduce the blood flow rate, which compromises the effectiveness of dialysis.
- If left untreated, the fistula may eventually fail.
Benefits
- Restores blood flow through the fistula.
- Improves the quality and efficiency of dialysis.
- Avoids the need for more invasive surgery, like creating a new fistula.
