Vascular aspects of haemodialysis.
Vascular access remains the Achilles heal of haemodialysis. Fistulae are the most effective means of access, but are subject to thrombosis and infection. Bidirectional single-line systems are a useful alternative to shunting in the short-term management of acute renal failure. Attention must be given to the insertion of a patient's first fistula, and to the subsequent care of these access sites.
D000765:Anesthesia, Conduction; D001166:Arteriovenous Shunt, Surgical / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods* / Q000451:nursing; D001807:Blood Vessel Prosthesis; D006470:Hemorrhage / Q000209:etiology; D006801:Humans; D006435:Renal Dialysis / Q000379:methods; D012501:Saphenous Vein / Q000637:transplantation; D013530:Surgical Wound Infection / Q000209:etiology; D013927:Thrombosis / Q000209:etiology