What happens after AV fistula surgery?

It is normal to experience some pain and swelling over the next several days. For the first few days after your access surgery, keep your arm elevated on pillows whenever possible. Be sure to keep your arm above the level of your heart to control swelling and ease any discomfort you may be feeling.

What would be your nursing measures to maintain the fistula?

Keeping your fistula clean Look for redness or swelling around the fistula area. If you experience any pain in the fistula area, tell your doctor immediately. If you get a fever, this can be a sign of infection. Wash and pat dry your fistula arm thoroughly right before each treatment.

When is AV fistula used after surgery?

A patient can usually use an AV graft 2 to 3 weeks after the surgery. An AV graft is more likely than an AV fistula to have problems with infection and clotting. Repeated blood clots can block the flow of blood through the graft. However, a well-cared-for graft can last several years.

How do you take care of a dialysis fistula?

Fistula or Graft

1. Wash with an antibacterial soap each day, and always before dialysis. Do not scratch your skin or pick scab.
2. Check for redness, a feeling of excess warmth or the beginning of a pimple on any area of your access.
3. Ask your dialysis care team to rotate the needles when you have your dialysis treatment.

Is AV fistula surgery high risk?

The creation of an arteriovenous fistula (AVF) for hemodialysis access is a low-risk procedure. It is often time sensitive, as avoidance of central venous catheters (CVCs) and their complications is paramount.

What should you not do with a fistula?

Do not take blood pressure measurements from your fistula arm • Do not have any blood tests taken from your fistula arm • No needles, infusions, or drips go in your fistula arm • Do not wear any tight or restrictive clothing on your fistula arm • Avoid sleeping on your fistula arm • Do not use sharp objects near your …

How long does it take for AV fistula to heal?

Depending on the person, it can take several weeks to several months for an AV fistula to heal and mature. In the United States, the time from AV fistula creation until first use averages 133 days, or approximately 4 months.

Can fistula heal by itself?

Fistula tracts must be treated because they will not heal on their own. There is a risk of developing cancer in the fistula tract if left untreated for a long period of time. Most fistulas are simple to treat.

Can a AV fistula be removed?

Removal of Noninfected Arteriovenous Fistulae after Kidney Transplantation is a Safe and Beneficial Management Strategy for Unused Dialysis Access. Ann Vasc Surg.