Getting your dialysis access

For effective and safer treatment

Dialysis access is a way to connect your body to the dialysis machine to safely remove toxins and extra fluid.

Access for peritoneal dialysis (PD)

A minor surgery is scheduled to place a PD catheter into your abdomen. This soft plastic tube is about the length of a ruler and the width of a pencil. The drainage end of the catheter is put into your lower abdomen, underneath and to the side of your belly button. Most PD catheters are ready to use about 7-14 days following this procedure. 

Access Options for Hemodialysis

• Vascular Access. A fistula or graft is the best access for hemodialysis because of lower infection risk. This type of access is usually placed on your nondominant arm. For example, if you’re right-handed, your access might be placed on your left arm. Here’s the difference between a fistula and a graft:
  • Fistula. The surgeon connects your own artery to your own vein to create a safe access to your bloodstream in your arm. For most people, this is the best choice for the safest access. It’s important to plan ahead, because a fistula may take several months to be ready to use for dialysis.
  • Graft. Artificial tubing is placed into your arm to connect your artery to your vein to create a safe access to your bloodstream. This is a good option if a fistula isn’t possible. A graft can usually be used for dialysis within a few weeks after this procedure.

Learn more about vascular access

• Hemodialysis Catheter. A plastic tube is placed through a vein in your neck or chest and reaches to the top of your heart. This method is used if a fistula or graft isn’t possible, or as a temporary dialysis access while you’re waiting to have a fistula or graft placed. A catheter can be used right away, but the risk of infection rises the longer it stays in place, so it’s important to replace it with a fistula or graft if at all possible.