When is an Arterio-venous graft typically used?

An Arterio-venous graft is typically used when a fistula cannot be created and time to mature is not available. This is particularly important in patients who may have superficial or small veins that do not lend themselves well to the creation of a fistula. Fistulas require time to develop adequately through maturation, which involves the veins becoming larger and more resilient to withstand repeated needle insertions required for dialysis.

In situations where patients require immediate vascular access for hemodialysis but do not have suitable veins for a fistula or cannot wait for one to mature, a graft provides a viable alternative. The graft, usually made from synthetic material, can be placed under the skin, connecting an artery to a vein, allowing for quicker access for dialysis treatments. This ability to provide immediate access is a crucial aspect of choosing a graft when dealing with urgent dialysis needs.