Dialysis Management Santa Fe:
Doppler and color-flow ultrasound can be used to determine if there are any problems with the fistula. Doppler is a type of ultrasound that measures blood flow through the fistula to ensure that it’s above a certain level, typically greater than 400 cc/min, which ensures adequate dialysis and prevents clotting or narrowing of the fistula by-pass graft (BPJ). The ultrasound will also help your doctor detect if your BPJ has become stenotic, which means that it’s becoming narrower or blocked.
What is a Dialysis Fistula?
The fistula is a surgically created connection between an artery and a vein in the arm. The flow of blood must be maintained above a certain level to allow adequate hemodialysis. If not, the narrowing (stenosis) will develop. Doppler and color-flow ultrasound can be used to determine if a stenosis is developing, but it is important to keep track of the fistulas and dialyzer flow rates throughout hemodialysis treatment.
How Can I Check My Fistula?
Dialysis Management Santa Fe has a few different ways to help monitor your fistulas, including Doppler and color-flow ultrasound. This will help identify any problems with flow or narrowing before they become serious. We can also do a Q-tip test to determine if there is an increased risk of stenosis. If you have questions or concerns, please call us today!
Are There Factors That Will Increase My Chance of Developing a Stenosis?
Patients with a dialysis fistula have unique needs. The flow through the fistulas must be maintained above a certain level to allow adequate hemodialysis. The fistulas can be monitored with Doppler and color-flow ultrasound to determine if a narrowing (stenosis) is developing. If stenosis does develop, it may result in an increase in blood pressure, causing hypertension or other heart problems; it also increases the risk of infection and bleeding.
What Should I Do If I Think My Dilation May Be Narrowing?
If you think your fistula may be narrowing, contact the team at Dialysis Management Santa Fe. We are experienced in dialysis management and can help you assess your condition. If necessary, we can refer you to a transplant center or other specialists to get more information.
Can Anything Else Cause Me Concern Regarding My Dilation or Kt/V Rate?
Patients with fistulas have unique needs. The flow through the fistula must be maintained above a certain level to allow adequate hemodialysis. The fistulas can be monitored with Doppler and color-flow ultrasound to determine if a narrowing (stenosis) is developing. The stenosis may or may not be visible on traditional ultrasounds, but it can be picked up by Doppler or color-flow ultrasound.
What About Lymphoedema, aka Lymphedema?
One of the risks associated with a dialysis fistula is narrowing, or stenosis. We recommend that all patients monitor their flow rate with Doppler and color-flow ultrasound to determine if a narrowing (stenosis) is developing. If your fistula is at risk for stenosis, we recommend you contact the specialists at Dialysis Management Santa Fe. They can help you manage your condition and prevent further complications from developing. ##
When Should I See My Nephrologist Again Regarding My Fistula or Kt/V Rates?
This is a tough question to answer. It really depends on the individual and their experience with dialysis. If you are noticing any problems with your fistula, or if your Kt/V rates are not high enough, then you should talk to your nephrologist about it. But in general, we recommend seeing them every six months.
