There are three ways to reach your bloodstream for dialysis, and they differ substantially in longevity and infection risk.
What to know
- Arteriovenous fistula: an artery joined to a vein, usually in the arm. Longest-lasting and lowest infection risk — the preferred access.
- Arteriovenous graft: a synthetic tube joining artery to vein, used when veins are unsuitable for a fistula.
- Central venous catheter: a tube in a large vein, usable immediately but with the highest infection and clotting risk.
- Fistulas need weeks to months to mature before first use — plan the surgery well ahead of starting dialysis.
Talk to your care team
This topic is part of Vascular Access Care, one of ten modules in the Trivita Learning Hub. If anything here contradicts what your own nephrologist or dialysis nurse has told you, follow your care team — they know your prescription, your access and your history.
Trivita's dialysis nurses answer our care line 24 hours a day on 055 242 1070, including for people who are not yet our patients.
Education, not medical advice. This page explains home hemodialysis in general terms for patients and care partners in the UAE. It is reviewed by Trivita's Medical Director but cannot account for your individual circumstances. Never change a prescription, medication or technique based on this page alone.