This page explains what a fistula is, how it is made and how to take care of it. It also will explain the benefits and possible risks. What is a fistula?A fistula is a special connection in your arm...
A fistula is made by a surgical procedure in hospital. You may have an ultrasound scan first to check the exact size and placement of the artery and vein in your arm. The fistula procedure itself is usually done under either a local anaesthetic (which numbs a small area on your arm), or a regional ...
What are the benefits of having a fistula rather than a dialysis line?A fistula is usually recommended as the best form of long-term access for haemodialysis. A fistula allows you to have more efficient dialysis than the alternative of a temporary haemodialysis line, because it allows the blood to f...
How is the fistula used?When you have haemodialysis, a member of your kidney team will apply some local anaesthetic cream around your fistula to numb the area. They will then insert two needles into your fistula. One needle takes the blood out of your body, and the other returns the filtered blood...
Recognise!Is your fistula bleeding?Are you unable to stop the bleed?Locate your bottle top keyringAct!Apply hollow side over bleeding siteMaintain pressureSecure firmly with a bandageGet help!DIAL 999Tell the emergency services you have uncontrolled bleeding from your dialysis fistula/graft. Where c...
Publication date: 05/2024Review date: 05/2027This resource was produced according to PIF TICK standards. PIF TICK is the UK’s only assessed quality mark for print and online health and care information. Kidney Care UK is PIF TICK accredited...