Dialysis Fistulogram and Angioplasty

Ideal Candidates for Dialysis Fistulogram and Angioplasty

Before recommending any procedure, our expert team carefully evaluates each patient’s dialysis access function, symptoms and treatment history. While these procedures benefit many dialysis patients, several factors help determine if this approach is right for you.
You may be a good candidate for dialysis fistulogram and angioplasty if you:

• Experience decreased blood flow or poor clearance during dialysis sessions
• Notice prolonged bleeding or increased swelling around your access site
• Feel unusual vibrations, pulsations or changes in the “thrill” of your fistula
• Develop high venous pressures during dialysis treatments
• Want to avoid more invasive surgical revision of your dialysis access
• Need prompt treatment to continue effective dialysis without interruption

As minimally invasive treatment options, dialysis fistulogram and angioplasty involve significantly less risk and downtime than surgery. If you’re experiencing issues with your fistula, our team can help determine if these procedures are right for you. We’ve helped countless patients maintain the functionality of their access site when complications arise.

What to Expect During Treatment

On the day of your procedure, you’ll arrive at our state-of-the-art facility in Lake Forest, Mission Viejo or Irvine. The process begins with a brief preparation period where our team will check your vitals and administer local anesthesia to ensure your comfort.

Next, our interventional radiologist inserts a small needle into your fistula. Contrast dye is injected, allowing us to view your access site under X-ray guidance and identify any problem areas. If narrowing or blockage is detected, angioplasty will be performed immediately. A specialized catheter with a balloon attachment is guided to the affected area and carefully inflated to widen the vessel. You may feel some pressure during inflation, but the procedure is generally not painful. If necessary, a stent may be placed to maintain the opening.

Throughout the entire process, which typically takes 60-90 minutes, you’ll remain awake but comfortable. Upon completion, the catheter is removed, and pressure is applied to prevent bleeding. No stitches are required, and only a small bandage covers the entry site.