AV Fistula creation — the gold standard vascular access for hemodialysis. Day-care surgical procedure, high success rate, and long-lasting dialysis access at Unittas Hospital Chennai.
An arteriovenous (AV) fistula is a surgically created connection between an artery and a vein, typically in the arm. This connection enables the high blood flow necessary for effective hemodialysis — where blood is filtered to remove waste products in patients with end-stage renal disease. Unlike temporary catheters, an AV fistula offers a more permanent and safer option, reducing the risk of infections and complications over time.
Patients undergoing dialysis require a sturdy access point to connect to the dialysis machine multiple times a week. An AV fistula uses the body's own vessels, leading to better long-term outcomes. It is recommended for individuals with chronic kidney disease progressing to dialysis, as it matures over weeks to handle the demands of treatment.
The choice of fistula type depends on vein quality, arm dominance, and overall health.
| Type | Location | Advantages |
|---|---|---|
| Radiocephalic Fistula | Forearm (wrist area) | Lower complication risk; preserves upper arm options for future use |
| Brachiocephalic Fistula | Upper arm (elbow area) | Higher blood flow; easier to access for dialysis |
| Transposed Brachiobasilic Fistula | Upper arm | Suitable when other veins are not viable |
A straightforward outpatient procedure under local anaesthesia, typically 1–2 hours:
Patients return home the same day — an ideal day-care procedure.
Reduced hospital stayLowers infection risks and is cost-effective compared to inpatient options.
Long-Lasting AccessUses the body's own vessels for durable, reliable dialysis access.
Lower Infection RiskFar lower infection rate compared to catheters.
Quick Return to RoutineSame-day discharge with minimal disruption to daily life.
We offer transparent, affordable pricing with no hidden charges. Costs include the procedure, anaesthesia, and standard care.
| Room Type | Approximate Cost (INR) |
|---|---|
| General Ward (Sharing Occupancy) | ₹40,000 |
| Single Room Non AC | ₹60,000 |
| Single Room AC (Deluxe) | ₹80,000 |
* Additional charges may apply for diagnostics, medications, or extended stays. Contact us for a personalised quote.
Generally 4–8 weeks for maturation, but some may require up to 3 months depending on individual healing.
Light exercises like squeezing a stress ball are encouraged to promote maturation, but avoid strenuous activities for the first few weeks.
In rare cases, a revision surgery or alternative access like a graft may be needed. Regular monitoring helps detect issues early.
The procedure uses local anaesthesia, so discomfort is minimal. Post-operative pain is managed with over-the-counter medications.
Daily checks for the thrill and signs of infection are recommended to ensure ongoing functionality.
Yes, but the non-dominant arm is preferred first to preserve daily functionality.
Focus on a kidney-friendly diet low in sodium and phosphorus, as advised by your nephrologist.
No strict limits, but older patients may have higher risks due to comorbidities, which are evaluated beforehand.
Fistulas have lower infection rates and longer durability, making them superior for long-term use.
The surgeon assesses healing, blood flow, and maturation using ultrasound if necessary.
Short trips are fine after a few days, but consult your doctor for long journeys to avoid complications.
Most health plans cover it as an essential treatment for kidney disease. Our team assists with documentation.
Our expert urology team at Unittas Hospital is here to help. Book a consultation today.