Interventional Radiology: Kidney, Bladder and Urinary Tract
Renal Dialysis Access Study (Fistula or Graft)

Also called: AV fistulagram or artificial graft

Purpose of a fistulagram is to evaluate renal access from a surgical fistula/graft (synthetic connection of an artery and a vein) that is not functioning properly. Upon attempt to access the fistula or graft, the flow rate may not be high enough, venous pressures may be too high or the graft may clot off frequently.

The procedure involves placement of a tiny needle (smaller than a dialysis needle) into the fistula / graft and injection of contrast dye, which enables visualization within the fistula/graft from its arterial end to its venous end and all the veins to the heart. Treatments such as venous angioplasty / stent (renal dialysis access) may be performed to treat blockages that are detected.