Conditions & Treatments

Dialysis Access Creation & Maintenance

For patients whose kidneys are failing, dialysis is a lifeline — and it needs reliable access to the bloodstream. I create arteriovenous fistulas and grafts, and I keep them working. A good access is planned around your anatomy and your life: created early enough to mature before it's needed, and maintained so dialysis runs don't get interrupted.

What I offer

  • Access planning — vein mapping by ultrasound and a plan matched to your anatomy and dialysis timeline
  • Fistula & graft creation — surgical creation of arteriovenous access, with a preference for your own vessels when they'll serve you best
  • Access maintenance & rescue — angioplasty, stenting, and declotting when an access narrows, clots, or won't mature
  • Long-term surveillance — by proactively monitoring for narrowing in your fistula or graft, we have the chance to reverse small issues before they become problems that threaten the access
  • Coordination with your nephrologist and dialysis center — flow problems get addressed before they become missed treatments

Common questions

When should dialysis access be created?

Well before dialysis is expected to start. A fistula needs time to mature before it can be used, so planning early avoids relying on a temporary catheter.

Fistula or graft — which is better?

When your own vessels are suitable, a fistula is generally preferred: it tends to last longer and carries a lower risk of infection. A graft is a good option when anatomy doesn't allow a fistula.

What if my access stops working?

Tell us promptly. A narrowed or clotted access can often be reopened with angioplasty, stenting, or declotting, and acting early is what preserves it.

Ready to be seen?
Request an appointment online, or call — new consultations are seen quickly.