What Is a Dialysis Access Ultrasound (AV Fistula and Graft)?
A Dialysis Access Ultrasound, also known as an AV Fistula and Graft Ultrasound, is a safe, noninvasive imaging examination used to evaluate the function of a hemodialysis access site. This examination assesses arteriovenous (AV) fistulas and AV grafts to ensure they are functioning properly and providing adequate blood flow for dialysis treatments.
​
Using high-frequency sound waves, the examination allows your sonographer to evaluate blood flow, measure access volume flow, and identify abnormalities that may affect the performance of your dialysis access. The ultrasound also evaluates the arteries and veins connected to the access, helping detect narrowing (stenosis), blockage, clot formation, aneurysms, pseudoaneurysms, or other complications.
​
A Dialysis Access Ultrasound is commonly performed when there is concern about decreased dialysis efficiency, difficulty accessing the fistula or graft, prolonged bleeding after dialysis, changes in the thrill or bruit, swelling of the arm, pain, or other signs that the access may not be functioning properly. It is also used as part of routine surveillance to monitor dialysis access over time.
​
Because maintaining a well-functioning dialysis access is essential for effective treatment, this examination plays an important role in detecting problems early, helping guide treatment decisions, and preserving long-term access function.
Why Is a Dialysis Access Ultrasound (AV Fistula and Graft) Performed?
A Dialysis Access Ultrasound (AV Fistula and Graft) is performed to evaluate the function of an arteriovenous (AV) fistula or AV graft used for hemodialysis. This examination assesses blood flow through the access, identifies abnormalities that may interfere with dialysis, and helps ensure the access continues to function properly.
Common Reasons to Have a Dialysis Access Ultrasound (AV Fistula and Graft)
What to Expect During Your Examination
A Dialysis Access Ultrasound (AV Fistula and Graft) is a safe, painless, and noninvasive examination that typically takes 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the complexity of the evaluation.
​
During the examination, you will be asked to lie comfortably on an examination table while a clear, water-based ultrasound gel is applied to your arm. The gel helps transmit sound waves and allows detailed images of your dialysis access to be obtained.
​
Your sonographer will gently move an ultrasound transducer over your AV fistula or AV graft to evaluate blood flow throughout the access. Using color Doppler and spectral Doppler ultrasound, the examination measures blood flow volume, evaluates the arteries and veins connected to the access, and looks for narrowing (stenosis), blockage, clot formation, aneurysms, pseudoaneurysms, or other abnormalities that may affect dialysis.
​
The examination does not use radiation, injections, or contrast dye. Most patients experience little to no discomfort, although mild tenderness may be present if the access site is sensitive.
Once the examination is complete, you may immediately return to your normal daily activities unless you have been given different instructions.
How to Prepare for Your Dialysis Access Ultrasound (AV Fistula and Graft)
Preparing for your Dialysis Access Ultrasound (AV Fistula and Graft) is simple, and no special preparation is typically required. You may eat and drink normally and continue taking your regular medications unless you have been given different instructions.
​
If you have had recent dialysis access surgery, angioplasty, thrombectomy, surgical revision, or other procedures involving your AV fistula or graft, please let your sonographer know before your examination. It is also helpful to mention any current symptoms, such as prolonged bleeding after dialysis, swelling, pain, changes in the thrill or bruit, difficulty with needle placement, or problems during dialysis treatments.
​
Before Your Appointment
​
✓ Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing or a short-sleeved shirt that allows easy access to your dialysis access. You may be asked to change into a medical gown for the examination.
✓ Continue taking your prescribed medications unless you have been instructed otherwise.
✓ You may eat and drink normally before your appointment unless you have received different instructions.
✓ Do not apply lotions, oils, or creams to the arm with your dialysis access on the day of your examination, as they may interfere with the ultrasound gel and image quality.
✓ If possible, avoid wearing tight sleeves, bracelets, or jewelry on the arm with your AV fistula or graft.
✓ Bring any relevant medical records or previous dialysis access ultrasound reports if they are available and have not already been provided.
✓ Arrive 10–15 minutes early to complete any necessary paperwork and check in before your scheduled appointment.
​
A Dialysis Access Ultrasound requires no injections, contrast dye, radiation, or special preparation, making it a simple, safe, and convenient examination. Following these instructions will help ensure your examination is performed as comfortably and efficiently as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a Dialysis Access Ultrasound (AV Fistula and Graft)?
A: A Dialysis Access Ultrasound is a noninvasive examination that evaluates the function of an arteriovenous (AV) fistula or AV graft used for hemodialysis. It measures blood flow, assesses the arteries and veins connected to the access, and looks for narrowing, blockage, clot formation, or other abnormalities that may affect dialysis.
​
Q: Is a Dialysis Access Ultrasound painful?
A: No. The examination is generally painless. You may feel mild pressure from the ultrasound transducer, but most patients experience little to no discomfort.
​
Q: How long does the examination take?
A: Most examinations take approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the complexity of the evaluation.
​
Q: Do I need to prepare for the examination?
A: No special preparation is usually required. You may eat, drink, and take your usual medications unless you have been instructed otherwise.
​
Q: Will I be exposed to radiation?
A: No. Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create images and does not involve radiation.
​
Q: What can this examination detect?
A: This examination can identify narrowing (stenosis), clot formation (thrombosis), reduced blood flow, aneurysms, pseudoaneurysms, access maturation problems, and other abnormalities that may interfere with effective dialysis.
​
Q: Why is routine surveillance important?
A: Regular surveillance can detect developing problems before they lead to access failure. Early identification of abnormalities allows timely treatment, helping preserve your AV fistula or graft and maintain effective dialysis.
​
Q: Can I return to my normal activities after the examination?
A: Yes. Most patients can resume their normal daily activities immediately after the examination.
Q: What happens if a problem is found?
A: If the examination identifies a significant abnormality, the results can help guide the next steps in your care. Depending on the findings, additional evaluation or treatment may be recommended to help maintain the function of your dialysis access.
​
Q: Can I schedule this examination without a referral?
A: Yes. Depending on your circumstances and applicable regulations, this examination may be scheduled as a self-pay service or following a referral from a healthcare provider.
Schedule Your Dialysis Access Ultrasound (AV Fistula and Graft)
Scheduling your Dialysis Access Ultrasound (AV Fistula and Graft) is quick and convenient. Whether your examination has been recommended by a healthcare provider or you are scheduling a self-pay evaluation, you can book your appointment online in just a few minutes.
​
Choose the option below that best fits your needs. If you have an AV fistula, select the AV Fistula Ultrasound examination. If you have an AV graft, select the AV Graft Ultrasound examination and proceed to schedule your appointment.
​
Every examination is performed by an experienced registered vascular sonographer using advanced ultrasound technology to accurately evaluate blood flow, access function, and potential complications, helping provide the information needed to support effective dialysis care.
​
If your dialysis access has suddenly stopped working, you have a complete loss of the thrill or bruit, significant bleeding, severe swelling, or signs of infection such as fever, redness, or drainage, contact your dialysis center or seek immediate medical attention rather than scheduling an outpatient ultrasound examination.
Why Choose Alpha Vascular?
Experienced Sonographer
Board-Certified Interpretation
Advanced Ultrasound Technology
