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Apex Multispeciality Hospital : Kopar Khairane

APEX MULTISPECIALITY HOSPITAL

NAVI MUMBAI

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AV Fistula for Dialysis in Kopar Khairane, Navi Mumbai

An AV (arteriovenous) fistula is a connection made between an artery and a vein, usually in the arm, to create a strong, long-lasting access point for haemodialysis. It is the preferred access for long-term dialysis because it has lower infection and clotting risk than a catheter. At Apex Multispeciality Hospital, Kopar Khairane, AV fistulas are planned by nephrologists and created by a surgeon. [HOSPITAL TO VERIFY: who performs AV fistula surgery at Apex (for example plastic, vascular or general surgeon)]

Why plan a fistula early?

A new fistula needs about 6 to 8 weeks or more to mature before it can be used. Creating it well before dialysis starts avoids the need for a temporary catheter.

The procedure

  1. The veins and arteries are checked, sometimes with an ultrasound.
  2. The operation is usually done under local or regional anaesthesia.
  3. A small cut is made at the wrist or elbow and an artery is joined to a nearby vein.
  4. Most patients go home the same day.

Caring for your fistula

  • Feel for the ‘buzz’ (thrill) over the fistula every day. If it stops, contact the hospital immediately.
  • Do hand-squeeze exercises as advised to help it mature
  • No blood pressure checks, injections or blood tests on the fistula arm
  • Avoid tight bangles, watches or sleeping on that arm
  • Keep the area clean

Fistula problems and repair

Fistulas can narrow, clot or develop swellings over time. Some problems are treated with a procedure to open the narrowing, others need surgical repair or a new fistula. [HOSPITAL TO VERIFY: which fistula repair procedures are performed at Apex]

Risks

Possible risks include failure of the fistula to mature, clotting, bleeding, infection, swelling of the hand and, rarely, reduced blood supply to the hand.

Contact the hospital urgently if the fistula stops buzzing, bleeds heavily, becomes red, hot and painful, or your hand becomes cold, pale or numb. Call +91 85912 35064 or 108, or come to the 24/7 Emergency department.

Our nephrology team

AV fistula care at Apex is supported by Apex Hospital’s medical team, including:

  • Akash Ranka, MD, DM (Nephrology)
  • Sachin Naik, MD, DM (Nephrology)

Meet the team on our doctors page.

AV fistula in Kopar Khairane, Navi Mumbai

Planning, surgery and dialysis are available in one hospital. Apex Multispeciality Hospital is in Sector 19, Kopar Khairane, near MSEB, and serves patients from Kopar Khairane, Ghansoli, Vashi and nearby parts of Navi Mumbai. Get directions.

Plan your dialysis access with our nephrologists. Request an appointment or call +91 85912 35064.

Frequently asked questions

How long does an AV fistula take to be ready?

Usually about 6 to 8 weeks or more. Your team checks when it is ready to use.

Is AV fistula surgery painful?

It is done under local or regional anaesthesia, so it is not painful during surgery. There is some soreness afterwards.

Why is a fistula better than a catheter?

A fistula has lower risk of infection and clotting and usually lasts longer.

What should I avoid on my fistula arm?

No blood pressure checks, injections, blood tests, tight bangles or heavy pressure on the arm.

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