Fistula Facts

One of the dialysis techs came by to check out my fistula. He said it looked and felt fine, then offered up some random information about fistulas.

• He said not to rush into using the fistula before it matures since it may blow out. If that happens, then I have to go back to the chest catheter. I didn’t ask him what happens if we’ve already removed the catheter. Also, I thought they (dialysis clinic + nephrologist) decided when the fistula is ready for use, not me.
• Even if the fistula matures, it could still blow out when used properly. I would rather keep using the chest catheter but everyone said I need the fistula.
• When the fistula is ready, they will start with only one needle in the fistula and connecting one of the ports on the catheter. I think this will continue to strengthen the fistula so it doesn’t blow out and fail. Not sure how long they will run with this “hybrid” connection. I guess the catheter is not going to be removed immediately.
• I need to exercise the fistula with a squeeze toy. The clinic gave me one that looks like a large pill to exercise and grow the fistula.