Fistula & Fistulogram - what a bummer!

[graciekycats]

Had fistulogram done Nov 3rd.  Bruising finally going away.  Swelling down 95%.  They put in 2 "springs" like stents above fistula.  They are like bulges.  Occasionally they itch.  But still got my thrill.  I'm sure vascular surgeon said he had to do it because my veins are so small.  But dang.  If I had known I doubt I would have done it.  Been 3 weeks since I could use my right arm like I used to.  Poor hubby has been supportive with all the extra chores he's had to do.  Excuse me I'm just being fussy.

[Michael Murphy]

Yes the fistula process is a pain in the butt but when and if you start dialysis it is a life saver.  Significantly lower risks then the other options.  I hope you can avoid dialysis for a bunch more years but the hassle of having the fistula installed and working is like a insurance policy,  its there if you need it. After I had my fistula installed I had to have a angioplasty performed on it 6 months after the surgery then I ignored it for 18 months till I started Dialysis but I could see from the others who started about the same time as me the real advantages of having it done.  The ability to shower is one.