This is an artificial blood vessel that is used to connect the artery and the vein. Grafts can be made out of biological materials such as a vein from the leg or from synthetic materials such as Teflon. This type of material is often referred to as a gortex. Grafts are used when a patient is not a good candidate for a Native AV Fistula. A disadvantage to having a Graft or Gortex is that they have a higher incidence of clotting than a Native AV Fistula does. If clotting occurs in the graft it can most often be surgically de-clotted. Infection is also an increased risk.
Both Native AV Fistulas and AV Grafts should be cleansed with soap and water. Prior to the dialysis treatment, the nurse will cleanse the area with alcohol. Lidocaine may be used to numb the area where the needles will be placed. The nurse will then place two needles into the access site. One pulls blood from the body and the other returns it. After the treatment, the needles are pulled and pressure is held on that needle site until the bleeding stops. This can often take 10 minutes or more.