Having a hemodialysis fistula and maintaining access is a process. This is not a one and done procedure. With our evaluation and examination, we choose the best artery and vein which can last as long as possible, but there may be other procedures that are needed to make sure that the access or fistula is working properly. 

The risks of creating an arteriovenous fistula, though very very rare, need to be explained.  These include bleeding, infection, hematoma, failure of dialysis access and need for further procedures, pain, ischemia to the fingers and loss of a limb. Dr. Albrecht will explain these risks and will answer every question a you may have.

Snake River Vascular Surgery is committed to making sure all questions and concerns are answered. 

About Renal Failure

The human body is an amazing machine that works wonders throughout our lives but doesn’t always work perfectly. Throughout life, there are things that can cause us problems or may choose not to work perfectly. When it comes to your health, it can be frustrating when things are not working as they should and may cause problems for you. For some, this means that you will have to make adjustments in your life and live with the body that you were given. At Snake River Vascular Surgery, we know that adjusting to life changes and a diagnosis can be frustrating and you may feel lonely and discouraged. Our team of professionals wants to guide you through the process and help you to feel the best that you can! We are committed to your health and want to do what is best for you!

What is Renal Failure?

Renal failure is also known as kidney failure. It is a condition in which the kidneys are unable to adequately perform their essential functions. Your kidneys play a crucial role in filtering waste products, excess fluids, and toxins from the bloodstream, maintaining electrolyte balance, and regulating blood pressure. When renal failure occurs, these functions are impaired or completely disrupted. There are two main types of renal failure.

Acute Renal Failure

Acute renal failure occurs suddenly and is often reversible with prompt treatment. It is usually caused by a sudden reduction in blood flow to the kidneys, damage to the kidney tissue, or obstruction in the urinary tract. Common causes include severe dehydration, kidney infection, certain medications, blood loss, or kidney injury.

Chronic Renal Failure

Chronic renal failure is a long-term, progressive condition characterized by the gradual and irreversible loss of kidney function over months or years. It is often caused by underlying conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, glomerulonephritis, polycystic kidney disease, or recurrent kidney infections. Chronic renal failure may eventually lead to end-stage renal disease, requiring dialysis or kidney transplantation for survival.

Symptoms of Renal Failure

Depending on the severity of and the cause of the underlying condition, your symptoms may vary. Here are some common symptoms that are associated with renal failure:

• Decreased Urine Output: One of the early signs of renal failure is a decrease in urine production. You may notice a reduced frequency of urination, lower urine volume, or even complete cessation of urine output.

• Fluid Retention and Swelling: When the kidneys fail to remove excess fluid and waste products from the body, fluid can accumulate, leading to swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, and sometimes the face.

• Fatigue and Weakness: Renal failure can cause a buildup of toxins and waste products in the body, leading to fatigue, general weakness, and a lack of energy.

• Shortness of Breath: Fluid retention in the lungs can cause difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, and a feeling of chest congestion.

• Changes in Urination: In addition to decreased urine output, other changes in urination may occur. This can include increased frequency, especially during the night, foamy urine, or dark-colored urine.

• Nausea and Vomiting: Accumulation of toxins in the bloodstream can lead to feelings of nausea, vomiting, and a loss of appetite.

• Loss of Appetite and Weight Loss: Many individuals with renal failure experience a decreased appetite, leading to unintentional weight loss.

• Itching and Skin Rashes: Kidney failure can cause an accumulation of waste products in the blood, leading to persistent itching and dry skin. Skin rashes and changes in skin color may also occur.

• Muscle Cramps and Weakness: Electrolyte imbalances, such as low levels of calcium, potassium, or magnesium, can result in muscle cramps, muscle weakness, and even muscle twitching.

If you experience any of these symptoms or have concerns about your kidney health, come see us at Snake River Vascular Surgery. We want to address your concerns and guide you in the right direction in regard to your health. 

Dialysis Evaluation

If it is determined that dialysis is the best course of action for your health, you will need to have a dialysis evaluation done with our team. You will be scheduled for an ultrasound to be done on both arms to help us find the best arteries and veins that should be used for the dialysis. We will then explain hemodialysis and the procedure to create dialysis access. A booklet with pictures and drawings is used during the explanations for a better understanding of the process. When choosing the best artery and vein, we hope it will last as long as possible, but there is a chance that changes will need to be made in the future to ensure that everything is working properly. Throughout this process, at Snake River Vascular Surgery we are committed to making sure all questions and concerns are answered. 

Choose Snake River Vascular Surgery

Facing health concerns, no matter your stage of life can be scary. It is common to feel discouraged and worried about what the future holds. Unfortunately, even if you do everything right for your body, it still may not always work the way that it should. At Snake River Vascular Surgery, we understand all the feelings that come with the unknown. That is why our team of professionals is here to help you and guide you through the process of renal failure. Any questions or concerns that you may have, we will be happy to discuss them with you. Please call us, our trained staff members are committed to your health and doing what is in your best interest. No matter what you are experiencing, we want to help you feel confident in the next steps of your health journey.