Certified Hemodialysis Technician Practice Exam

The main concern when using grafts compared to fistulas in hemodialysis is less durability. Grafts, which are typically made from synthetic materials or animal veins, do not have the same biological integration as a fistula, which is created by surgically connecting a vein to an artery. This natural connection allows for better blood flow and more efficient use of the vascular access.

Grafts are more susceptible to complications such as thrombosis (clot formation) and infection, which can reduce their long-term effectiveness. Over time, a fistula generally outperforms a graft in terms of longevity and functionality, making durability a significant consideration when choosing vascular access for hemodialysis.

While other options such as stenosis, surgical recovery time, and the need for interventions are important, the overarching issue remains the tendency of grafts to have a shorter lifespan and necessitate replacements or repairs more frequently than fistulas.