At Vital Vein & Vascular, we provide personalized dialysis access care based on each patient’s vascular anatomy, dialysis needs, and overall health. Treatment options may include arteriovenous fistula or graft creation, as well as evaluation and management of existing dialysis access.
Dialysis Access Treatment in Orange County
Dialysis access provides a way for blood to leave the body, pass through the dialysis machine, and return to the bloodstream during hemodialysis. Access may include an arteriovenous fistula, graft, or catheter, depending on the patient’s vascular anatomy and dialysis needs.
At Vital Vein & Vascular, we provide evaluation and treatment of dialysis access based on each patient’s individual needs.
DIALYSIS ACCESS CARE
VASCULAR EVALUATION
PERSONALIZED TREATMENT
Trusted vascular care
TRUSTED VASCULAR CARE
WHAT WE TREAT
Types of Dialysis Access Involving Veins
ARTERIOVENOUS FISTULA (AV FISTULA)
An AV fistula is created by connecting an artery to a nearby vein, usually in the arm. The increased blood flow through the vein causes it to enlarge and strengthen over time, allowing it to be used for hemodialysis. Fistulas are generally preferred when a patient’s blood vessels are suitable for this type of access.
REQUIRES MATURATION
ARTERY-TO-VEIN CONNECTION
SURGICAL ACCESS
PREFERRED WHEN SUITABLE
ARTERIOVENOUS GRAFT (AV GRAFT)
An AV graft uses a synthetic tube to connect an artery and a vein, creating a pathway for blood flow that can be used for hemodialysis. A graft may be considered when a patient’s blood vessels are not suitable for an AV fistula.
SYNTHETIC TUBE
ARTERY-TO-VEIN CONNECTION
ALTERNATIVE TO FISTULA
DIALYSIS ACCESS
HEMODIALYSIS CATHETER
A hemodialysis catheter is a soft tube placed into a large vein, often in the neck, chest, or groin. It may be used when dialysis needs to start quickly or while an AV fistula or graft is becoming ready for use.
CAN BE USED QUICKLY
NECK, CHEST, OR GROIN
TEMPORARY ACCESS
- DIALYSIS ACCESS
Surgical procedures
Surgical Procedures for Vein-Based Dialysis Access
Creating an AV fistula or AV graft involves a procedure to establish vascular access for hemodialysis. Your vascular surgeon will evaluate your blood vessels and overall health to determine the appropriate access and surgical approach. After the procedure, follow-up visits help monitor healing and access function as the access becomes ready for dialysis.
The Role of Vein Mapping in Dialysis Access
Vein mapping uses ultrasound to evaluate the size, depth, and condition of blood vessels before dialysis access is created. This information helps your vascular surgeon identify suitable vessels and plan the location and type of access, such as an AV fistula or graft.
Meet Your Surgeon
Dr. Christopher yi, MD
Board-Certified Vascular Surgeon · Founder, Vital Vein & Vascular
Dr. Christopher Yi founded Vital Vein & Vascular with a simple belief: patients deserve exceptional vascular care—and a clear understanding of their health.
As a board-certified vascular surgeon, Dr. Yi provides comprehensive care for conditions affecting the arteries and veins, from common circulation and vein concerns to complex vascular disease requiring advanced intervention or surgery. His experience spans both hospital-based vascular surgery and minimally invasive outpatient treatment, allowing him to evaluate each patient with the full range of treatment options in mind.
Dr. Yi believes the best treatment starts with the right diagnosis. He takes the time to explain what is happening, review treatment options clearly, and recommend what is medically appropriate for each patient—even when treatment isn't necessary.
That philosophy is at the heart of Vital Vein & Vascular: advanced vascular expertise, thoughtful treatment, and care patients can trust.
Board Certified
Vascular Surgery
Fellowship
Trained
California
Medical License
Member
SVS
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What causes blood clotting during dialysis?
Blood clotting during dialysis is often caused by a narrowing or blockage in the dialysis access site, such as an arteriovenous (AV) fistula or graft. Insufficient anticoagulation therapy, improper needle placement, or low blood flow rates can also lead to clot formation.
What causes shortness of breath in dialysis patients?
Shortness of breath in dialysis patients can occur due to:
- Fluid overload, which can lead to fluid accumulating in the lungs (pulmonary edema).
- Anemia, resulting from low red blood cell counts and reduced oxygen levels.
- Electrolyte imbalances, such as changes in potassium or sodium, which affect heart and lung function.
Does dialysis cause diarrhea?
Dialysis itself does not typically cause diarrhea. However, related factors such as:
- Certain medications, like phosphate binders or antibiotics.
- Dietary changes or restrictions.
- Underlying gastrointestinal conditions could trigger digestive issues like diarrhea.
Does dialysis cause hair loss?
While dialysis doesn’t directly cause hair loss, nutritional deficiencies, stress, and medications associated with kidney failure and dialysis can lead to hair thinning or loss. Ensuring proper nutrition and managing stress may help minimize hair loss.
What causes high blood pressure in dialysis patients?
High blood pressure in dialysis patients is often caused by:
- Fluid retention due to insufficient removal of fluid during dialysis.
- High sodium intake, which increases blood pressure.
- Kidney dysfunction, as the kidneys play a key role in blood pressure regulation.
What causes low blood pressure in dialysis patients?
Low blood pressure during dialysis can result from:
- Excessive fluid removal, which can lead to a sudden drop in blood pressure.
- Electrolyte imbalances, particularly sodium and potassium shifts.
- Underlying heart conditions, which may contribute to low blood pressure during treatment