Arteriovenous Graft Placement for Hemodialysis
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW:
An arteriovenous graft (AVG) is surgery to connect an artery to a vein using a graft. A graft is a plastic tube. You need an AVG if your artery and vein cannot be directly joined together for hemodialysis. The AVG is usually placed on the nondominant arm. For example, if you are right-handed, the AVG will be placed on your left arm. Blood will go out from and come back to the AVG after it is cleaned by the hemodialysis machine.
AFTER YOU LEAVE:
Medicines:
Follow up with your PHP as directed: Ask your PHP when you should return to have your AVG checked. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
Care for your AVG: Your incision will be closed with either stitches or thin strips of tape. Ask when you can bathe. If you have stitches, carefully wash your stitches with soap and water. Pat them dry with a clean towel. If your incision was closed with thin strips of tape, keep it clean and dry. As the strips of tape start to peel off, let them fall off by themselves. Do not pull them off.
Contact your PHP if:
Seek care immediately or call 911 if:
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.