Dialysis Access Bleeding
Dialysis access bleeding occurs when an arteriovenous fistula or graft bleeds excessively. Causes may include needle injury, infection, vessel damage or an associated pseudoaneurysm.
Symptoms
Prolonged bleeding after dialysis, skin thinning over the access, swelling or a pulsating lump. Uncontrolled bleeding is an emergency.
How interventional radiology treats it
Treatment depends on the cause. Angioplasty may correct an associated narrowing, while embolisation or other endovascular techniques may be used for selected vascular complications. A pseudoaneurysm may need a specific treatment based on its anatomy. Persistent or heavy bleeding requires urgent medical assessment.
Whether this treatment suits you depends on your scans and overall health. A consultation is the first step.
Your doctors
Talk to an interventional radiologist.
Bring any scans or reports you have. We’ll tell you whether this treatment is an option.