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Arteriovenous Fistula Creation for Hemodialysis

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 3, 2024.

What do I need to know about an arteriovenous fistula (AVF) creation?

An AVF creation is surgery to connect an artery to a vein. This surgery is done so you can receive hemodialysis. The AVF is usually placed in your forearm or upper arm.

How do I prepare for an AVF creation?

What will happen during an AVF creation?

You may be given general anesthesia to keep you asleep and free from pain during surgery. You may instead be given local or regional anesthesia to numb the surgery area. With local or regional anesthesia, you may still feel pressure or pushing during surgery, but you should not feel any pain. Your surgeon will make an incision in your arm. He or she will connect your artery and vein with stitches. Your incision will be closed with stitches and covered with a bandage.

What will happen after an AVF creation?

What are the risks of an AVF creation?

You may bleed more than expected or get an infection. Your AVF may become narrowed or blocked. This may slow or stop blood flow through your AVF, or to your arm or hand. You may need surgery to fix this or create another AVF. You may get a blood clot in your arm or leg. This may become life-threatening.

Care Agreement

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