I Hate Dialysis Message Board

Dialysis Discussion => Dialysis: Transplant Discussion => Topic started by: MooseMom on February 22, 2010, 06:47:39 PM

Title: Fistula after transplant
Post by: MooseMom on February 22, 2010, 06:47:39 PM
I have neither a fistula nor a new kidney yet, but I was just wondering what happens to your fistula after transplantation?  I'm assuming that you keep it going in case the new kidney fails, but for how long?  I will have to get a fistula soon to start dialysis; I am already jumping through all the hoops to get me on the UNOS list, but dialysis will come first, I'm afraid.  Will I have a fistula for the rest of my life?

Thanks for your replies!
Title: Re: Fistula after transplant
Post by: Chris on February 22, 2010, 06:53:10 PM
MooseMom, your thinking is correct. We keep them after transplant and keep them as long as they still have a bruit. If it fails, but the transplant is still working, a new one will not be done till your transplant is close to failing and dialysis is eminent. I had a fistula that failed and had a graft put in, which is checked evrtime I go to the transplant clinic, nephrologist, or in the hospital.
Title: Re: Fistula after transplant
Post by: jennyc on February 24, 2010, 12:42:25 AM
Same, they check mine each day. A new Doc came on rotation at the clinic yesterday and commented on how lovely and strong it was "well that can be used if we need too". mines not really an issue. It's never been used so its not that big, just a small lump on my wrist.