An AV Fistula (Arteriovenous Fistula) is the preferred and safest vascular access for patients requiring long-term hemodialysis. It is a minor surgical procedure that connects an artery directly to a vein, allowing reliable blood flow for effective dialysis treatment.
Under the expert care of Dr. Ajinkya Kasekar, AV fistula creation is performed with precision to ensure durability, good blood flow, and fewer complications.

What Is an AV Fistula?

An AV fistula is created by surgically joining:

• An artery (high blood flow)

• A vein (low pressure vessel)

This connection causes the vein to become larger and stronger over time, making it suitable for repeated dialysis needle insertions.

AV fistula is considered the gold standard access for hemodialysis.

Who Needs an AV Fistula?

AV fistula is recommended for patients with:

• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

• End-stage renal disease (ESRD)

• Patients planning to start long-term hemodialysis

• Patients currently using temporary dialysis catheters

• Those requiring a safer, long-lasting dialysis access

Early fistula creation improves dialysis outcomes and reduces complications.

Types of AV Fistula

Depending on vein quality and anatomy, Dr. Ajinkya Kasekar may create:

1. Radiocephalic Fistula

Created at the wrist
Preferred first choice due to long-term durability

2. Brachiocephalic Fistula

Created at the elbow
Used when wrist veins are not suitable

3. Brachiobasilic Fistula

Created in the upper arm
Used in selected cases with vein transposition

The type is decided after vein mapping and clinical evaluation.

How AV Fistula Surgery Is Performed

1. The procedure is done under local anesthesia.

2. A small incision is made at the selected site.

3. An artery and vein are carefully connected.

4. Blood flow through the vein increases immediately.

5. The wound is closed with minimal sutures.

Procedure time: 30–60 minutes
Usually performed as a day-care surgery.

Maturation of AV Fistula

After surgery, the fistula needs time to mature.

• Maturation period: 4–8 weeks

• Vein becomes thicker and stronger

• Ready for safe dialysis needle insertion

Patients are guided on fistula exercises to promote proper maturation.

Benefits of AV Fistula

• Best long-term dialysis access

• Lower risk of infection

• Better blood flow for efficient dialysis

• Long-lasting compared to catheters or grafts

• Fewer complications

• Improved dialysis outcomes

Care of AV Fistula

Patients are advised to:

• Keep the fistula arm clean

• Avoid blood pressure checks or injections on that arm

• Check daily for vibration (thrill)

• Avoid heavy lifting initially

• Report pain, swelling, or reduced flow immediately

Proper care ensures long-term fistula success.

Possible Complications (Rare & Treatable)

• Delayed maturation

• Narrowing (stenosis)

• Clotting (thrombosis)

• Infection (rare compared to catheters)

Early follow-up helps prevent major issues.

Why Choose Dr. Ajinkya Kasekar?

• Expertise in AV fistula creation and vascular access

• Careful vein assessment and planning

• High success and maturation rates

• Focus on long-term dialysis safety

• Clear patient education and follow-up care

• Compassionate approach for chronic kidney patients

Book a Consultation

If you are planning for dialysis or have been advised vascular access surgery, an AV fistula is the safest and most reliable option.
Consult Dr. Ajinkya Kasekar for expert evaluation and AV fistula creation.