Vascular Access for Hemodialysis

Vascular access for hemodialysis is a medical procedure that creates a way for blood to flow from a person's body to a dialysis machine and back. This is essential for people whose kidneys aren’t functioning properly. There are three main types of access: an arteriovenous (AV) fistula, which is created by connecting an artery to a vein; an AV graft, which uses a synthetic tube to connect them; and a central venous catheter, which is a flexible tube placed into a large vein. Each method has its own benefits and risks, but all aim to ensure effective dialysis treatments.