AV Fistula Permcath and AV Graft for Dialysis

There are two types of vascular access designed for long-term use: arteriovenous fistula (AF fistula) and arteriovenous graft (AV graft). A venous catheter is another form of vascular access that is recommended for short-term use due to the high risk of infection.

An AV fistula results from the direct connection of an artery to a vein, usually in the wrist, forearm, or upper arm. The AV fistula creates additional pressure by increasing blood flow through the vein, making it bigger and stronger and allowing easy access to blood vessels.

The AV graft consists of a plastic tube implanted under the skin that connects the artery and vein and provides access for dialysis needle placement.