Yesterday, I had a procedure done at the hospital to get my dialysis catheter placed. I start nocturnal dialysis tomorrow. My nephrologist was adamant that I not wait any longer to start dialysis because my creatinine is very high (I've been stage 5 for two years). The vascular surgeon who my nephrologist highly recommended to do my fistula is currently on vacation, but I will need to schedule an appointment as soon as he gets back. However, I have a few questions/concerns:
1) The dialysis catheter seems to have a high risk of infection. What can I do to prevent it getting infected? It seems like the biggest thing I can do is to not get the area around it wet.
2) How long does it usually take for the fistula to work once one has the surgery?
3) Once the fistula is ready, who is qualified to remove the catheter?
My inner hypochondriac is a bit anxious based on the stuff I've read. Thanks.
Written by
steve680
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If I remember correctly from working on a dialysis unit fistulas take six months to mature. As for infection don't get it wet and whoever changes the bandage should use sterile procedure and wear a mask. If you notice any signs of infection always report them immediately to your doctor.
My husband did PD every night which then reduced to 5 nights. He had a catheter fitted in his abdomen. He was urgently fitted with his. They said it took two weeks to heal before it could be used and would need to be flushed before that to clean the line. Unfortunately my husband’s function and creatinine and urea got worse and he was forced to start using his line after only a few days. They started him off in hospital until we could go to a Baxter training centre to learn PD dialysis. The training was brilliant. As already said, keep the area dry, use special shower covers/pouches, I changed his dressing covering his catheter every other day. The hospital showed me how to. He didn’t develop any infection and dialysis worked well and helped him feel tonnes better. He’s just had a transplant (from his sister) and is doing well but stay in as much as he can! Not sure if you’re talking about the same dialysis but hope this helps. Take care.
my husband has a fistula . His nuero. surgeon did it ( recommended by nephrologist) never had a catheter. Your questions aren’t best answered by your surgeon
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