Fistuloplasty
A minimally invasive procedure performed by an Interventional Radiologist to open up narrowings and prolong the life of your AV fistula.
Fistuloplasty: Restoring Your Dialysis Lifeline
For patients undergoing hemodialysis, a functional Arteriovenous (AV) Fistula is a lifeline. However, over time, the high-pressure blood flow can cause the vein to narrow (stenosis) or develop clots (thrombosis), making dialysis difficult or impossible.
Common Symptoms
- Difficult Cannulation: Dialysis nurses have trouble inserting needles.
- Decreased 'Thrill': The vibrating sensation over the fistula feels weak or absent.
- High Venous Pressures: Alarms on the dialysis machine during your session.
- Prolonged Bleeding: Taking much longer than usual to stop bleeding after dialysis.
- Swelling: Significant swelling in the arm, hand, or face.
Risks of Ignoring
- Ignoring fistula dysfunction leads to total blockage (clotting)
- May require emergency surgery or the placement of a temporary neck catheter
- Increases the risk of infection and central vein damage
How the Procedure Works
Access
Under local anesthesia, a tiny needle is used to access the fistula. A thin wire and catheter are navigated through the narrowed area under X-ray guidance.
Mechanism
A high-pressure medical balloon is positioned at the site of the narrowing and inflated. This physically stretches the vein back to its original size.
Advanced Treatment
Drug-Coated Balloons (DCB): We often use balloons coated with specialized medication to prevent the narrowing from returning quickly.
Key Benefits & Advantages
Immediate Results: You can often use the fistula for dialysis the very next day.
No Surgery: Performed through a 'pinhole,' avoiding the need for new surgical scars or general anesthesia.
Repeatable: This procedure can be performed multiple times over the years to keep the same fistula working for a decade or more.
Related Vascular Care Procedures
Book a Consultation
Schedule an appointment with our specialists to discuss if Fistuloplasty is right for you.
