On December 21, 2024, Fortis Memorial Research Institute in Gurugram hosted the 6th AV Fistula Care Workshop, a special initiative led by Dr. Himanshu Verma, Director of Vascular Surgery. The event brought together 30–40 dialysis patients and their caregivers for an interactive, hands-on session aimed at improving AV fistula care and overall health.
A Hands-On Approach to AV Fistula Care
One of the workshop’s standout activities was teaching patients how to monitor their AV fistulas or grafts using stethoscopes. This simple yet life-changing skill empowers patients to detect issues early by identifying specific sounds:
- A continuous buzz indicates the fistula is functioning well.
- A pause or break in the sound may signal narrowing, prompting patients to check their blood pressure and consult their surgeon.
- No sound suggests a blockage, requiring immediate medical attention.
By learning this technique, participants gained the confidence to manage their vascular access effectively, potentially preventing complications.
Practical Advice for Healthier Living with Kidney Disease
Dr. Trisha Sachan Misra, a renowned renal nutrition expert, shared easy, actionable tips for eating well with kidney disease. Her advice was tailored to the needs of CKD patients, emphasizing kidney-friendly foods that are both nutritious and flavorful.
Patients also practiced simple, low-impact exercises designed to enhance blood flow, supporting fistula health and overall well-being.
Personalized Care Kits for Ongoing Support
To ensure continuous care, all attendees received personalized AV Fistula Tool Kits, thoughtfully curated to address their needs. These included:
- A stethoscope for regular fistula monitoring.
- A kidney-friendly diet plan with practical meal ideas.
- Educational materials such as care instructions from Dr. Himanshu Verma, wristbands, and fridge magnets to reinforce key practices.
A Day of Empowerment and Hope
The workshop was filled with energy, hope, and inspiration. Patients and caregivers left feeling more confident and equipped to take charge of their health. By focusing on patient education and empowerment, events like these highlight the importance of fostering proactive healthcare habits among CKD patients.
Join Us in the Journey Toward Better CKD Care
At Fortis Memorial Research Institute, we are committed to enhancing the lives of CKD patients through innovative care and education. If you or someone you know could benefit from similar workshops, stay tuned for updates and resources designed to make managing kidney disease easier and more effective.
Together, we can build a healthier tomorrow.

