What is Fistula (Arteriovenous AVF)?
Fistula (Arteriovenous AVF) Procedure is a surgical procedure performed to create vascular access for patients undergoing dialysis treatment. This is accomplished by surgically joining the patient’s own artery and vein. This fistula allows blood to flow effectively and safely to the dialysis machine. One of the major advantages of AVF is the lower risk of infection as it is created from the body’s own veins. It is also considered the gold standard for dialysis patients because it is long-lasting and suitable for repeated use.

Fistula (AVF) Creation Process
An Arteriovenous Fistula (AVF) is a natural cannulation point created by surgically joining an artery and vein. This procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia and provides an effective vascular access for dialysis treatment.
Advantages of fistula
Arteriovenous Fistula is longer lasting, causes fewer complications and has a lower risk of infection than other vascular access methods. It is natural and safe as it is created from the body’s own vessels.

Fistula (Arteriovenous AVF) Care
Regular inspection of the fistula is essential to detect early signs of obstruction or infection. In addition, keeping the fistula site clean and dry optimizes blood flow.
Fistula (Arteriovenous AVF) Maturation
Once the fistula has been created, a “maturation” period of several weeks or months is usually required. During this time, the fistula is strengthened and ready to be used for dialysis.
Fistula Complications
Although AVF has a lower risk of complications than other access methods, problems such as blockage, bleeding or aneurysm formation can still occur. Regular check-ups allow early detection of possible complications.
Are There Risks of AVF?
As with any surgical intervention, the creation of an arteriovenous fistula involves certain risks. Infection, blood clots and problems at the fistula site can occur. However, these risks are usually low.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fistula (Arteriovenous AVF)

An arteriovenous fistula is a type of vascular fistula that forms a direct connection between an artery and a vein. This type of fistula allows blood to flow more quickly from the artery to the venous system.
AVF is often used in kidney dialysis. A point is created for the dialysis device to connect to the bloodstream. This allows blood to be removed from the device during dialysis, cleaned and then returned back to the body.
AVF can be created by a surgical procedure or endovascular techniques. During surgery, an artery and a vein are joined directly. In endovascular procedures, the inside of the vessels is intervened, usually using a catheter.
Regular maintenance is important to keep the AVF healthy. This includes checking the blood flow in the fistula area, keeping the area clean and detecting potential complications early.
In some cases, AVF creation may be difficult due to special conditions in the vascular system. In this case, alternative vascular interventions may be considered.
