01/07/2026
For patients with kidney failure who need dialysis, dialysis access is a lifeline. It’s the way your blood travels to and from the dialysis machine so it can be filtered and cleaned.
There are a few main types of access:
🩸 Fistula – Created by connecting an artery and vein, this is the gold standard for long-term dialysis.
🩸 Graft – A soft tube that connects an artery and a vein when veins aren't suitable for a fistula.
🩸 Renal catheter – A narrow tube placed in a large vein in the neck.
Maintaining healthy dialysis access is crucial. It ensures your treatments are safe and effective. Interventional radiologists play a key role in creating, maintaining, and restoring access when problems arise. Learn more at https://www.lakelandvascular.com/services/dialysis-access-maintenance/