For most dialysis patients, a fistula only lasts around 5 years. Fistulas can burst, collapse or become clotted. Then a new access site is created in the other forearm. That one lasts a few years and then one is placed in the upper arm on one side, then on the other side. Eventually, a fistula may need to be created in the groin. These fistulas are our lifelines and it’s essential to keep them going.
Luckily, I’ve been an exception to the rule and my one fistula has lasted for 14 years now, and still going strong.
Which means that so far I’ve avoided extra surgery and disfiguring scars.
With a little extra care, we can keep our access sites functional for years and years to come.
Find out more:
Here is a link to the full article that I wrote for voices@renadyl :
[Click Here] Keeping your fistula running for years to come