Installing the AV fistula

[PeaB4YouGo]

Here we go. This happens today. Not real nervous or anything, which is strange. Good surgeon and all, so wish me luck.

[Bassetmommer]

Wish you well. I just had the consult for mine which will be two surgeries. Let us know how it goes. Just curious...what is your current GFR?

[PeaB4YouGo in reply to Bassetmommer]

it was 15 in my pre-op labs

[horsie63]

Good luck. My veins are too tiny to do this so I'd to have to find another way. I'm hoping PD lasts long enough for me to get a transplant. I wish you well.

[PeaB4YouGo in reply to horsie63]

When they told my mom the same thing, back in the 70's, they finally came up with using a cow's vein. I don't know if they ever perfected that. I DO know it was experimental. Worked great for her.

[KidneyCoach NKF Ambassador in reply to PeaB4YouGo]

I had a bovine graft placed in 2015. It worked very well for several years. Many doctors still prefer them over synthetic ones. Blessings

[Beachgirl32]

good luck to you hope it works well for you

[Ziggydoodah]

Good luck. It really isn't too bad. Just make sure you rest it. The most difficult part was the numbness afterwards and trying to find a good sleeping position. You will be fine x

[LeesKees_NJ]

Good Luck Pea! I went in for a fistula and came out with a graft. My veins were too small for a fistula. So they inserted the graft in my non-dominant upper arm. There is no missing the graft. I have yet to have any problems with insertions ever. Make sure to get a prescription for Lidocaine cream. Put it on you access an hour before treatment. You won't feel a thing. Totally painless.

[PeaB4YouGo]

I have Pics!! Heh. I don't suppose this is anything new to some of you folks, but here you go. They couldn't put it closer to my wrist for some reason, so it's up in the crook of my elbow.

Fistula - close

[bumblebee_tuna in reply to PeaB4YouGo]

just had the surgery, my hand looks exactly the same…

[LeesKees_NJ]

Looks like it is healing up very well. It will take a bit for it to mature, you won't be able to use it for dialysis right away. The vein will start to enlarge to handle all that blood.

[AndrewT]

Dear PeaB4YouGo,

Great Name! The Fistula Surgery should be 'fine', Many Many are Done every day. Yes there are a Few 'Possible Complications' but, having had one myself, and knowing Many Others, whilst on Dialysis, I can re-assure you regarding any Problems.

You will probably spend Three Days in hospital, one before the surgery, the day itself and one afterwards. I found little discomfort Post Op, maybe a bit 'sore'- you should be Sent Home on the third day, assuming all is well.

Buy some Numbing Cream, we have one called 'Germoline' (I think that's how it's spelt) because by day 5, or so, the Stiches Will start ITCHING! Mine were not removed for Ten days.

Apart from this, and the slight chance of infection which they will discuss with you, this is, pretty much, all you need to know. Clearly, if you do, have any other questions then please DO ask any of us,

I'm probably Stating The Obvious but, in case you are not familiar with Hospitals (OK you have been 'In & Out since you were three.......) there are a few 'things' you need to bring. A Wash Bag, or similar, containing Soap/ Shower Gel etc, a Flannel (Wash Cloth), a Tooth Brush and Tooth Paste AND Slippers (or other suitable Foot Wear). A Dressing Gown- or Pyjamas- a 'Personal' Entertainment Device is probably a good idea and don't forget your HEADPHONES! (Personally I wouldn't Bother, trying to, use The Internet- just bring some Disks/ Memory Sticks).

Additionally you may, be asked, to bring any Current Medication, Paperwork or Assessments- though these should be 'Available', via the Internet. All that remains is for me to wish you the...........

Best Of luck

AndrewT

[PeaB4YouGo]

And, here it is, two and a half weeks later. I know, I'm not the only one with one of these puppies, but it's fun to show off. LOL

2 1/2 wks