What Is Arteriovenous and Aneurysmal Fistula?

An arteriovenous fistula, or AVF, is an abnormal connection of vessels between an artery and a vein. Generally, people suffering from renal failure and undergoing long-term hemodialysis require a surgical creation of an AV fistula for smooth dialysis. However, these fistulas can also arise when an aneurysmal artery ruptures into an adjacent vein. This is called an aneurysmal fistula, where intimal, medial, and adventitial layers of the vessel wall expand to a diameter of 18mm, causing pain and disturbance in blood flow. No medication or lifestyle changes can cure a fistula. Surgery is usually necessary.

Why Choose NAVC for Your AV Fistula Surgery in Suwanee/Johns Creek, GA & Nearby Areas?

The main objective of AV fistula treatment is to isolate and close the abnormal connection, thereby attempting to maintain normal blood flow. At North Atlanta Vascular Clinic and Vein Center, we have five experienced and board-certified vascular surgeons with years of experience in treating a variety of vascular and venous diseases in Suwanee/Johns Creek, Alpharetta, Lawrenceville & Cumming, GA.

Meet Our Team of Specialists for Arteriovenous Fistula Treatment

Uthan Vivek

Uthan Vivek, MD, MS, FACS, FRCS, RPVI

With 15 years of expertise, Dr. Vivek is a board-certified endovascular surgeon, experienced in treating vascular disorders.

Mehulkumar Joshi

Mehulkumar Joshi, DO, MS, RPVI

Dr. Joshi is a Fellowship-trained vascular and endovascular surgeon with expertise in limb salvage, venous disease, and many more.

Visharad Patel DO

Visharad Patel DO, MS, RPVI

Dr. Patel is a Fellowship-trained vascular surgeon with expertise in dialysis access work, abdominal aneurysms, and peripheral artery disease.

James Ren, DO

James Ren, DO

Graduate of Nova Southeastern University, Dr. Ren is well-trained in the diagnosis and management of vascular disorders.

Types of Arteriovenous Fistula

Depending upon their etiology, AV fistulas are broadly divided into two groups:

Congenital AV Fistula

Congenital AV Fistula

Congenital fistulas are generally rare. They occur as a result of genetic factors or malformations. These include pulmonary, coronary, hepatic, carotid-cavernous, and dural fistulas.

Acquired AV Fistula

Acquired AV Fistula

Acquired AV Fistula is further sub-divided into:

  • Surgically created AV Fistulas (for hemodialysis)
  • Trauma (Accidental or Procedure-related)

What Are the Symptoms of Aneurysmal Fistulas?

  • Swelling in the arms or legs

    Swelling in the arms or legs

  • Decreased blood pressure

    Decreased blood pressure

  • Fatigue

    Fatigue

  • Bulging veins.

    Bulging, purplish veins seen through the skin, similar to varicose veins

  • Heart failure

    Heart failure

  • clubbing

    Fingertips to spread out and become rounder than normal (clubbing)

  • Coughing up blood

    Coughing up blood

  • Gastrointestinal Bleeding

    Gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding

  • cyanosis

    Pale gray or blue lips or fingernails due to lack of blood flow (cyanosis)

Looking for Arteriovenous and Aneurysmal Fistula Treatment in the Greater Atlanta Area? Contact Our Team NAVC!

A fistula of any type can be scary and painful and can affect the daily life of a person. It is always advisable to contact a board-certified vein specialist to understand the underlying health condition and to seek appropriate treatment. If you have an Aneurysmal Fistula and are seeking quality diagnostic and treatment options, contact North Atlanta Vascular Clinic today! Our licensed healthcare providers offer safe, successful, and accurate treatment for all vascular diseases. Our Vascular & Vein practice is located in Suwanee/Johns Creek, Alpharetta, Lawrenceville & Cumming, GA.

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FAQs

Most fistulas heal by themselves. However, some high-risk and complicated ones may require surgeries.

Although AV fistula surgeries are safe, it is, however, beneficial to consider risks that affect the patient like Hemorrhaging, low venous flow or hematomas, Venous Hypertension, and Ischemia. Our providers will discuss all the risks and what is best for you - after all, every patient is different.

Recovery rate and success of surgeries depend on the health of the patient, the type of fistula, and the skill of the surgeon.