Health Right Here: Understanding hemodialysis for kidney failure

Devin Zarkowsky MDSpecial to Valley News
End Stage Renal Disease Vascular Access Options
When kidneys stop cleaning the blood effectively, known as end-stage renal disease (ESRD), vascular access for dialysis becomes essential for patient survival and quality of life. There are several vascular access options available, including central venous catheters, arteriovenous (AV) fistulas, and AV grafts. Each option has its advantages and disadvantages, but AV fistulas are generally considered the gold standard due to their lower infection rates and better long-term outcomes. As shown in the figure, patients receiving fistulas demonstrate improved survival over 5 years.
Single Site Percutaneous Arteriovenous Fistula Creation
A significant advancement in vascular access for dialysis is th