When it comes to dialysis access care, including the development and insertion of a graft or hemodialysis fistula, our team will make sure to provide you with a custom-built plan that encompasses the entirety of your care. With a detailed and extensive schedule, we can ensure that the process is completed safely and effectively.
Vein Mapping
Gulf Coast Vascular Care offers advanced ultrasound technology to locate where a fistula or graft is needed. Arterial visualization techniques allow our team to measure, guide, and monitor the treatment in real-time to better aid in the placement process and ensure accurate, meticulous care.
Tunneled Catheter Utilization for Hemodialysis
When a patient’s fistula or graft requires further maturation, we provide comprehensive catheter services that will aid in the dialysis process until the graft or fistula is ready for insertion.
To complete the hemodialysis process, our team will insert a dual-channel catheter around the neck or collarbone using ultrasound guidance. The first channel will remove and purify — or dialyze — the patient’s blood, while the second will return the blood to the body after it has been cleansed.
Fistulograms
When it is suspected that a patient’s graft or fistula is creating challenges for the overall dialysis process, a fistulogram test can allow our physicians to evaluate the access point and decide on the best next steps towards treating the patient.
Dialysis challenges as a result of a graft or fistula include:
- A weakening thrill/bruit
- Stagnation of blood flow
- Increased venous pressure
- Continuous bleeding
- And more
Thrombolysis
Should a blood clot or fibrin sheath develop, dialysis access may become blocked in a patient, thereby leading to further complications.
To restore blood flow back to the patient, our team will need to use catheter replacement and thrombolysis methods to dissolve or remove the present blood clot.