What is AV Access
AV (Arteriovenous) Access is a surgical connection between an artery and a vein, usually in the arm.
It allows safe and repeated access to your blood during hemodialysis.
During dialysis, your blood is removed, filtered by a machine, and returned to your body.
This process needs fast, steady blood flow — and AV access makes that possible.
There are three types:
- AV Fistula: your own artery and vein are directly joined
- AV Graft: a soft synthetic tube connects them
- Catheter: a temporary tube placed in a large vein (used when dialysis is urgent)
Who Creates AV Access
AV access is created by a vascular surgeon.
Your nephrologist will refer you when:
- Your GFR is below 15%
- Dialysis is expected in the next 1–2 month
The surgeon will check your veins and recommend the best access type.
Why AV Access is Important
AV access is your lifeline when your kidneys fail.
It allows high blood flow, handles regular needle use, and reduces risks like infection and clotting.
It lasts longer and works better than temporary options like catheters.
Why We Need AV Access
Arteries carry blood from the heart at high pressure.
Veins return blood at lower pressure and are too weak for dialysis.
So, surgeons connect the artery to the vein to make it stronger and usable.
This access is called:
- AV Fistula – when your artery and vein are joined directly
- AV Graft – when a soft tube is used to connect them
This new connection becomes strong enough to use during dialysis.
When to Plan AV Access
Plan your access before dialysis begins. The best time is:
- When GFR falls below 15%
- When your doctor expects dialysis in 1–2 months
Fistulas take 4–12 weeks to mature
Grafts take 2–4 weeks to be readyEarly planning helps avoid emergency catheters and ensures safer treatment.
- When GFR falls below 15%
Summary
- AV Access is essential for dialysis
- It must be created before starting treatment
- Only a vascular surgeon can create it
- Your nephrologist will guide you when the time is right
If dialysis may be needed soon, ask for a referral to create your AV access in time.
