General information, not an individual diagnosis. Ask a healthcare professional if you are unsure about your situation.
Haemodialysis circulates blood through a filter and returns it to the body. It requires suitable blood access for repeated sessions.
An arteriovenous fistula joins an artery to a vein in the arm. The vein needs to develop and strengthen before needles can use it.
Preparing access beforehand can avoid waiting for maturation when treatment is needed. Creating a fistula does not mean dialysis begins immediately.
During a fistula session, one needle carries blood to the filter and another returns it. The team arranges needle insertion and care after removal.
If access is not ready, a catheter in a large vein may be used. Its infection risk and care requirements differ from those of a fistula.
Ask which access is planned, when it will be checked and what instructions apply between sessions. Dialysis location and schedule remain individualised with the nephrologist.
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