Kidney Failure

The kidneys are important filtering organs that work by removing wastes from the body and managing the bodies’ fluids. When your kidney function declines–potentially resulting in kidney failure due to kidney diseases or even arterial diseases–the body can no longer maintain the person’s fluid balance. This may cause individuals to suffer swelling within their body.

If you’ve been diagnosed with a condition that has severely hindered your kidney function, you may need to undergo dialysis. Dialysis is a process in which your blood is removed via a fistula, cleaned, and returned to your body. To prepare you for dialysis, Dr. Davis will perform an AV fistula. In this procedure, a blood vessel is widened by our cardiovascular surgeon in order to create high-flow dialysis access for optimal outcomes.

The fistula or graft requires careful and regular attention in order to ensure it functions properly. Ultrasound can reveal early on when blockages or clots threaten the fistula’s normal function so they don’t fail when the time comes for dialysis. Waiting for bulging pseudoaneurysms (circuit wall weakening) does not need to happen. By closely monitoring the fistula, we can take any necessary actions ahead of time so we can support your improved kidney function.

As essential organs, your kidneys are in charge of regulating your body fluids and removing waste. It’s clear that if the kidneys suffer from disease and failure, then your body will greatly suffer as well. If you’re preparing for dialysis, please schedule an appointment with us so Dr. Davis can understand your concerns and work with you and your doctors to develop a treatment plan. We will keep your circuits functioning as you navigate dialysis.