Angioplasty

As a dialysis patient relying on an AV fistula or graft for access, there’s a potential for your AV fistula or graft to narrow or clot over time. In such cases, an interventional procedure may be necessary to enhance or restore blood flow, ensuring the uninterrupted continuation of your dialysis.

If you encounter issues with your access, your nephrologist might opt to refer you to a vascular care center, like Our Surgery Center – Long Beach, for assessment. At the center, a vascular specialist will evaluate whether an interventional procedure, such as angioplasty, is needed to ensure you depart with a fully operational access.

In the minimally invasive procedure known as angioplasty, a small balloon catheter is carefully navigated through your blood vessel to reach the access point. To ensure your comfort and relaxation, your doctor will administer medication, and a local anesthetic will be injected at the access site on your fistula or graft.

Following this, the physician will use fluoroscopy, a continuous x-ray imaging technique, to guide the balloon catheter to the area of blockage or narrowing within the access. Once positioned, the balloon is briefly inflated to reopen the narrowed or blocked section. Utilizing x-ray imaging, the physician assesses the improvement in blood flow through the treated area. Upon achieving sufficient vessel opening, the catheter is removed, concluding the procedure.

Typically, after the completion of angioplasty, you are allowed to return home. Before your departure, your heart rate and blood pressure will be monitored, and the access site will be checked for bleeding or swelling. Instructions may be provided to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for a day. Additionally, your physician may prescribe pain medication and blood thinners, and it is crucial to adhere to the given directions.