I Hate Dialysis Message Board

Dialysis Discussion => Dialysis: General Discussion => Topic started by: pagandialysis on March 23, 2012, 09:23:31 PM

Title: I need some advice about my access
Post by: pagandialysis on March 23, 2012, 09:23:31 PM

Long story short my fistula is screwed. It will work for a little longer and that's all.

I have been given two options:

1) Get a graft that will last 2-3 years according to the doctor.
2) I have this massive return vein that is bigger then a fistula needs to be at the bottom of my arm. It would last for 5-8 years.

My issues are:

1) Although the graft sound nice it has to replaced often.
2) The vein would have to be moved in a two stage operation. It would take two months and I would have to go back to a catheter while they do it. It bothers me that they have to cut a line from my elbow to my shoulder and lift the vein on top.

Any input?

Title: Re: I need some advice about my access
Post by: Rerun on March 23, 2012, 10:23:45 PM

I would go for the graft.  That gives thhem 2 years to think of something better!

                            :yahoo;       

Title: Re: I need some advice about my access
Post by: Traveller1947 on March 24, 2012, 02:28:29 AM

My graft has lasted seven years and counting...

Title: Re: I need some advice about my access
Post by: amanda100wilson on March 24, 2012, 12:16:22 PM

I would go for the fistula.  I had my vein lifted.  It hurt like hell but it really isn't such a big deal.  They were trying to push me towards a graft but I was adament that I wanted a fistula.  Now it is working just fine.

Title: Re: I need some advice about my access
Post by: lmunchkin on March 24, 2012, 04:40:35 PM

What does your VS recommend?

lmunch

Title: Re: I need some advice about my access
Post by: cassandra on March 24, 2012, 05:13:32 PM

Mmm yup, difficult. I go with Immunchkin, and go with the VS.

Good luck, and love Cas

Title: Re: I need some advice about my access
Post by: pagandialysis on March 24, 2012, 05:21:58 PM

My VS is full of BS. He has screwed up my arm every time he has touched it....yet the say he is the best in the area.

I have yet to consult with him as I just found all of this out. I am still debating if I should switch surgeons.

Title: Re: I need some advice about my access
Post by: cassandra on March 24, 2012, 05:23:47 PM

fair enough, is that a difficult process? If not I would definitely do that.

Title: Re: I need some advice about my access
Post by: lmunchkin on March 24, 2012, 07:22:24 PM

It is your right to switch, Pagan.  If you do not like this "excellent" surgeon, then switch!  Find one that is good and has a heart for his patients.  You will know, the minute he/she speaks!

God Bless,
lmunchkin

Title: Re: I need some advice about my access
Post by: sullidog on March 24, 2012, 09:48:40 PM

I have a graft, but a fistula is best. My graft will be 2 years in april, it's had some ups and downs, but with a good surgeon and good care it should last a long time!
If you have a good vein for the fistula then I'd go with it as that is the best access option, and get a good surgeon.