Thrombectomy: Restoring Blood Flow to Your Dialysis Access
How clot removal saves your fistula or graft and gets you back to dialysis quickly.
A clotted dialysis access is an emergency. Without functioning access, you can't receive dialysis. The good news is that thrombectomy can often restore flow and save your fistula or graft—if treated promptly.
Signs Your Access Is Clotted
Call Immediately If:
Why Time Matters
The longer a clot sits in your access, the harder it becomes to remove. Fresh clots are much easier to treat than old ones. Call us immediately if you notice your access isn't working—don't wait until your next dialysis appointment.
The Thrombectomy Procedure
Access
Small needle punctures into the fistula or graft (similar to dialysis needles).
Clot Removal
Clot is broken up and removed using specialized devices or clot-dissolving medication.
Find the Cause
Angiography identifies any narrowing that caused the clot. Most clots happen because of underlying stenosis.
Treat the Cause
Angioplasty (balloon) or stent opens any narrowed areas to prevent re-clotting.
After the Procedure
Success Rate
Over 90% of clotted accesses can be successfully restored with thrombectomy.
Same-Day Dialysis
Most patients can use their access for dialysis the same day or next day.
Preventing Future Clots
- Check your access daily for thrill and bruit
- Regular monitoring to catch narrowing early
- Treat stenosis before it causes clotting
- Stay well hydrated
Clotted Access? Call Now
We provide emergency same-day thrombectomy to save your dialysis access.