New video explains the preparation process in layman’s terms
The video explains the process of providing access to the bloodstream for kidney hemodialysis which filters the blood of impurities. More than eight million Americans have a major loss in kidney function according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In 2010, the CDC estimated that more than 650,000 Americans had kidney failure.
The nationwide increase in diabetes and high blood pressure are directly related to the growing incidence of kidney failure. Often, there are no warning signs of kidney failure. Detection occurs through a blood or urine test.
“There are two types of access portals,” said Dr. Smith. “The first is a graft which is a plastic tube that connects an artery to a vein. The second is the joining of an artery to a vein for increased blood flow.”
These outpatient procedures prepare the body for access to the dialysis machine. Both require significant healing time - a few weeks to months - prior to dialysis treatment. A non-invasive blood flow test helps vascular surgeons determine the best access portal for the patient.
About the Society for Vascular Surgery®
The Society for Vascular Surgery® (SVS) is a not-for-profit professional medical society, composed primarily of vascular surgeons, that seeks to advance excellence and innovation in vascular health through education, advocacy, research, and public awareness. SVS is the national advocate for 3,750 specialty-trained vascular surgeons and other medical professionals who are dedicated to the prevention and cure of vascular disease. Visit its Web site at VascularWeb.org®. Follow SVS on Twitter and Facebook.