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The Advanced Vascular Care Center provides a full range of interventions to ensure that patients’ vascular access is functioning well and they are able to receive dialysis on schedule.
Pre-Operative Mapping of Arm Veins
Fistulas are usually the preferred mode of vascular access. However, if your fistula fails to mature properly following placement, it cannot be used for dialysis. Our physicians use the latest sonographic technology to identify the veins and arteries that are most likely to produce successful outcomes.
Diagnostic X-ray (AV fistulogram)
Our physicians may take diagnostic X-rays, or fistulograms, to determine exactly how well your fistula is working. These images may reveal vascular access problems, such as clotting or narrowing of the blood vessels, and help your doctor determine the best treatment for you.
Ultrasonic Vascular Access Evaluations
Our physicians may use ultrasound – a diagnostic tool in which high-frequency sound waves are used to produce images – to evaluate the effectiveness of your vascular access.
Balloon Angioplasty
This technique is used to treat narrowing of the blood vessel that may impede blood flow and reduce the effectiveness of dialysis. The physician inserts a balloon into the narrowed section of the vessel and inflates it several times to widen the vessel and allow the blood to flow more freely.
Percutaneous Thrombectomy
A common problem associated with vascular access is obstruction of the blood vessels by blood clots. Thrombectomy is removal of the blood clot, typically by suction or by mechanical means. Our physicians specialize in percutaneous thrombectomy, which means the procedure is done in a minimally invasive manner – with tiny instruments that are inserted under the skin.
Catheter / Port Care
If your vascular access is a catheter, it is critically important to keep it free from infections and blood clots. When these complications occur, our physicians remove the catheter, correct the problems and return the catheter to the vein.
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