Patients undergoing dialysis often have a fistula, a surgical connection between an artery and a vein. The fistula contributes to more effective dialysis by improving blood flow. Dialysis treatment might be less effective if the fistula becomes blocked or too narrow. Dr. Peter Dovgan, the board-certified vascular surgeon at Space Coast Vascular in Melbourne, FL & Serving Palm Bay, FL, offers a fistulagram procedure to detect narrowing or blockages of the fistula so they can be corrected.
Purpose of a Fistulagram
A fistulogram is an X-ray procedure needed when a fistula malfunctions. Its purpose is to identify the problem, such as a blockage or narrowing of the fistula. Blood clots sometimes cause blockages, while narrowing can result from scar tissue forming in the fistula.
A fistulagram can provide information about the following types of fistula problems:
The location of a blockage in the artery or vein
The cause of the blockage (such as a clot)
The severity of the blockage
If vein pressures are too high
If there is adequate blood flow
The Fistulagram Procedure
The skilled vascular surgeon at our office in Melbourne, FL, & Serving Palm Bay, FL, performs the fistulagram procedure when a fistula is not functioning correctly and can determine if one is needed in your case. The procedure can take 1-3 hours to complete, with an additional 1-2 hours of recovery afterward.
The fistulagram procedure usually begins by administering anesthesia and sedation or pain medication. A small needle is then inserted into the fistula, injecting a special contrast dye. The dye makes it easier to observe the blood vessels within the fistula on x-ray images. Several X-ray images will be taken as the dye flows through the blood vessels. The images help reveal what is causing the fistula not to function correctly, such as a blockage or narrowing of the fistula.
Patients are taken to a recovery area after the procedure, where they are monitored for 1-2 hours before going home. Most individuals can resume light activities within a few days after having a fistulogram but should not do any driving or heavy lifting until the doctor clears. Based on the results of the fistulogram, a treatment plan will be developed to correct the issue causing the fistula not to function correctly.
A fistulogram might be needed if signs indicate your fistula is not working right. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Dovgan to find out if you need a fistulagram by calling Space Coast Vascular in Melbourne, FL, & Serving Palm Bay, FL, at (321) 751-2707.
