Hi, my function is still 12% creatinine is high at 414. I was going for PD but have changed my mind on Tuesday and opted for HD.
I am in to see the vascular surgeon on the 9th. just wondered what he will do and look at. And after that appointment how long will it be until I have it fitted.
Nervous but ready....
many thanks
Hi, The surgeons will want to check your veins and pulses in your arms. They may do a scan etc. This is to check the most suitable position for a fistula or graft. It terms of length of time: this probably depends on the hospital and the urgency. A fistula needs around 6 weeks to be strong enough to use although I've heard of them being used sooner. If it's a fistula, nothing is actually 'fitted' in your arm. The main artery is connected to a vein and to your pulse, which gives it the buzz or thrill. Your arm will be tender and probably bruised for a week after and you will have stitches and a thin scar of 1-2 inches long. A graft is used when the veins are not suitable or fistula attempts have failed. Here a special rubber tube is fitted under the skin instead and connected in a similar way. It will either be brachial ( inside of the elbow area) or radial ( wrist area) and if you're right-handed, most likely in the left arm.
Vascular surgeons are incredibly skilled people. It's certainly an easier process than having a pd tube fitted. Hospitals have different views on whether you have a local or general anaesthetic -Good luck.