AVF stands for Arteriovenous Fistula. It is a medical term that refers to an abnormal connection or passageway formed between an artery and a vein, usually created surgically for medical purposes. This connection allows the blood to flow directly from the artery to the vein, bypassing the smaller blood vessels.
Arteriovenous Fistulae are commonly used in medical procedures, especially in the context of kidney dialysis, to facilitate the removal and return of blood. This is because the high-pressure arterial blood is diverted into the low-pressure vein, resulting in an increased blood flow volume and pressure in the vein. This robust blood flow is advantageous for repeated punctures during dialysis treatment.
The creation of an AVF involves surgically joining an artery and a vein, typically in the forearm, although other locations may be considered. The procedure is performed under sterile conditions and is typically guided by ultrasound imaging. Once created, the AVF requires time to mature, gradually enlarging and strengthening the blood vessels to withstand the repeated needle punctures associated with dialysis.
AVFs are generally considered the preferred method for long-term dialysis due to their lower complication rates and longer lifespan compared to other types of dialysis access, such as arteriovenous grafts or central venous catheters.
In summary, an AVF is a surgically created connection between an artery and a vein that is used for blood access during dialysis treatments, ensuring an improved blood flow and longevity for kidney dialysis patients.
