Test Details & Preparation

A fistulogram is a test to look for abnormal areas in your dialysis graft or arterio-venous fistula that may be causing problems with your dialysis. These may include areas of blocked veins or arteries (occlusion), abnormal narrowing (stenosis), or areas of abnormal enlargement (pseudoaneurysm).

It is important that you not eat anything for at least 8 hours before the procedure as the X-ray dye and medication make some people feel nauseated.

A fistulogram test usually takes between 30 minutes and one hour and you will receive some sedation and pain control medication if you need it during the procedure.

A fistulogram test is only slightly more uncomfortable than your usually dialysis punctures. Because this is a minimally invasive procedure, your access site will be cleaned and draped with sterile sheets. The Radiologist will then numb the skin over your access and place a small tube called a catheter in your graft. X-ray dye is then injected and pictures are taken of your graft.

When enough pictures have been taken, you will be able to get off the bed, get dressed and go home if no further tests or treatment is needed. The radiology doctor will send a report about the scan to your doctor.

The fistulogram and possible angioplasty can be repeated as often as needed to help keep your graft or fistula open. This is a safe, commonly performed procedure.

The most common complications are allergy to x-ray dye and bleeding. There is also a slight risk of infection, and even smaller risk of circulation problems.