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How is an AV fistula created for dialysis?

To create an AV fistula, your surgeon will perform ultrasound mapping to locate a large enough vein for a fistula. AV fistulas can be made under local, regional, or general anesthesia. Your surgeon will decide which type of anesthesia is best for your procedure. During the surgery, an incision is made in the chosen arm or leg, and the vessels are connected. The connection may be made by dividing the vein and sewing one end to the side of the artery, or the two vessels may be joined side by side without dividing the vein. 

The surgery to create an AV fistula is most often performed outpatient, and you’ll be able to go home the same day of your surgery. However, in some cases, you might need to stay overnight. 

Once the AV fistula is created, it must “mature” before it can be used. This will take two to three months after the surgery. During this time, the vein will enlarge, and you will feel a vibration or “thrill” when you touch the area.

What is an AV fistula?

Why are AV fistulas created for dialysis?

How do you access an AV fistula for dialysis?

Is fistula for dialysis painful?

How long does an AV fistula last?

What is the most common complication of AV fistula?

* Savings estimate based on a study of more than 1 billion claims comparing self-pay (or cash pay) prices of a frequency-weighted market basket of procedures to insurer-negotiated rates for the same. Claims were collected between July 2017 and July 2019. R.Lawrence Van Horn, Arthur Laffer, Robert L.Metcalf. 2019. The Transformative Potential for Price Transparency in Healthcare: Benefits for Consumers and Providers. Health Management Policy and Innovation, Volume 4, Issue 3.

Sidecar Health offers and administers a variety of plans including ACA compliant and excepted benefit plans. Coverage and plan options may vary or may not be available in all states.

Your actual costs may be higher or lower than these cost estimates. Check with your provider and health plan details to confirm the costs that you may be charged for a service or procedure.You are responsible for costs that are not covered and for getting any pre-authorizations or referrals required by your health plan. Neither payments nor benefits are guaranteed. Provider data, including price data, provided in part by Turquoise Health.

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