Kidney Disease & Treatment
EndoAVF: The most significant innovation in hemodialysis in
over 50 years!
EndoAVF Description
The Arteriovenous fistula is created by attaching an artery to a vein under ultrasound guidance. Until now this could only be done through a surgical procedure. EndoAVF replaces surgery with a needle puncture in the vein below the elbow. This is a small incision that does not require sutures; patients leave this quick 30 minute procedure with just a band-aid.
EndoAVF Purpose
The arteriovenous fistula is the preferred access for hemodialysis. When compared to catheter dialysis and arteriovenous grafts, EndoAVF is the quickest, most minimally invasive, least costly, and least prone to infection access for hemodialysis.
Prior to the EndoAVF procedure, you will have an office visit with history, physical exam, and ultrasound of your arm. Bring a complete list of your current medications including dose and frequency to the office visit. If you are not currently taking an anti-platelet medication (like Aspirin) you may be started on one prior to your procedure.
On the day of your EndoAVF procedure, arrange for transportation to and from Sound Vascular. You will be sedated and/or have a nerve block during the procedure and are unable to drive. We can help with transportation if needed.
- Relax–don’t do anything stressful.
- You may eat and drink as usual.
- For 24 hours after your procedure:
- don’t drive or use heavy machinery
- don’t make any legal or financial decisions
- don’t sign any important papers
- don’t drink alcohol
- don’t lift anything any heavier than a 2-liter bottle of soda
- don’t wear clothing that will press against your wound a
- after 24 hours post-procedure you can return to usual activities
- If you received a nerve block for your procedure please see special nerve block discharge instructions.
The EndoAVF procedure is performed in an operating room with special ultrasound and X-ray equipment. You will lay on your back with your arm out to your side. Your arm will be sterilized with antiseptic solution and draped for the procedure. Your skin will be numb from a nerve block or a local anesthetic (numbing medication) will be administered. A vein at the elbow will be entered (like for drawing blood) and the procedure will be performed through this single venous access. There may be mild discomfort during the procedure. The procedure will take approximately 30 minutes. Once the procedure is completed, pressure will be placed at the venous access site to stop any bleeding and a small bandage will be placed. You will return to your pre-procedure room for 60 to 90 minutes of recovery. Written instructions will be provided to you at discharge.
Will I feel any pain?
You may have some mild pain, swelling, and bruising at your puncture site. This is normal.
Will I have stitches? If so, when will they be removed?
You will not have any internal or external stitches. You will have a small bandage covering your needle puncture site.
What should I watch for post-procedure?
- Any worsening redness or swelling around the puncture site
- Warmth around the puncture site
- Pus present or oozing from the puncture site
- Lack of pulse or weak pulse at the puncture site
Meet the Providers
Laura L. Slee,
DNP
Anna Cairns,
ARNP
Peter Gregory,
MD, RPVI
IAC
ABVLM Certified
First Class Care
Foremost Comprehensive Endovascular Treatment Center In Puget Sound
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