Fistula problems

[rascal01]

A wk. ago my fistula was not working. nothing. Only used it 5 times. Had 2 blocked arteries. went under the knife. thank God i still had my catheter! was told i could never have another in right arm. had it placed there due to bad veins in left arm. Am right hhanded also. So now what to expect? have ultrasound and consult on 3/4. Heard it is not a good choice to have chest catheter forever. infection control issues. Is this true? What options may i have?

[Charlene_Coxhead]

I'm sorry to hear you are having problems. When I had my first surgery for my fistula I only had one option of a brachiocephalic fistula which is on the inside of my arm. After 18months of not being used the week before starting dialysis I developed an issue which required going under the knife and repairing. Now before I had surgery I had an ultra sound in the top of my leg and I had to consent to a fistula being done there so I think this might be what they consider.

Have they definitely said no fistula in your left arm higher up like mine? It's not the straight forward one they like to do the lower wrist area is the gold standard but they do what they have to.

I really hope they get a fistula sorted for you soon.

How are you finding dialysis, as I understand your new to it like me. I'm 12 sessions in and training to do home HD. Are you feeling any better other than the worry of this fistula your dealing with?

Charlene