AV Fistula Salvage & Dialysis Access Repair in Thane

AV Fistula Salvage & Dialysis Access Repair in Thane By Dr. Ritesh Gaikwad
– Vascular and Endovascular Surgeon, KIMS Hospital, Hiranandani Estate

Av Fistula For Dialysis Repair in Thane

“Don’t let a failing AV fistula end dialysis access -- expert salvage procedures available now.”


AV Fistula Salvage is the process of repairing a failing or clotted AV fistula patients lifeline for dialysis before it becomes unusable.

For patients, it means avoiding catheter insertion.

For nephrologists, it means preserving dialysis access continuity.

For dialysis technicians, it means recognizing early warning signs and ensuring timely referral.

There are 3 common scenario where AVF salvage becomes critical:
  • Early failure – The fistula never matured or lacks thrill
  • Late thrombosis – The fistula was working but clotted suddenly
  • Venous outflow issues – Leading to swelling, high pressures, or steal

    • There are 3 common scenario where AVF salvage becomes critical:
  • Early failure – The fistula never matured or lacks thrill
  • Late thrombosis – The fistula was working but clotted suddenly
  • Venous outflow issues – Leading to swelling, high pressures, or steal symptoms

    • Common Problems with AV Fistulas

  • Thrombosis (clotting)
  • Stenosis (narrowing)
  • Immature AVFs
  • Steal Syndrome
  • Aneurysmal degeneration (enlarged veins)
  • Infection

    • Signs Your AV Fistula Needs Urgent Attention

  • No thrill or bruit felt during dialysis
  • Swelling, redness, pain at AVF site
  • High venous pressures on machine
  • Inadequate dialysis clearance (Kt/V drop)
  • Backflow alarms or machine difficulty in establishing flow

    • Technicians: Don't wait. Escalate immediately.

    Nephrologists: Early intervention improves salvage success.


    Dr. Ritesh Gaikwad’s AV Fistula Salvage Protocol

  • Duplex Doppler or AVF Angiogram to identify site of failure
  • Mechanical or pharmacological thrombectomy to remove clot
  • Balloon angioplasty to relieve venous stenosis ( Narrowing )
  • Stenting structural reinforcement needed
  • Surgical revision (e.g., re-anastomosis or outflow relocation)
  • Secondary AVF or AVG creation in chronic access loss

    • All procedures are performed at KIMS Hospital’s hybrid vascular suite in Thane, equipped for emergency access salvage.

    Why Early Intervention Matters

    “A failing AV fistula can often be saved if treated within 24–48 hours of symptoms.” – Dr. Ritesh Gaikwad


    Early salvage or repair:
  • Prevents need for dialysis catheter (temporary line)
  • Reduces infection risk
  • Maintains native AVF longevity
  • Minimizes downtime for patients and nephrology units

    • Technology at KIMS Hospital, Thane
  • Cath Lab with AVF imaging protocols
  • Real-time Duplex Ultrasound & IVUS
  • Access to hybrid OT for combined surgical-endovascular approach
  • 24x7 emergency access salvage availability

    • Real Cases Treated

    AVF Rescue – Male, 57 years, with decrease flow through AV fistula at forearm

    Fistulogram + angioplasty



    Flow restored in <1 hour

    Resumed dialysis next day without catheter

    “We thought we’d lost access... but Dr. Ritesh reopened it with a pinhole entry. Saved us from a neckline.” – Dialysis Technician, Thane unit.
    “He’s the best doctor for AV fistula salvage in Thane – even nephrologists from Mumbai refer him.”

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    A: Yes, if treated within 24–72 hours, success rates can exceed 85%.

    Salvage is always preferred—it preserves existing sites and avoids catheter placement.
    As per guidelines, a AV fistula be should be used as long as possible to maintain patient quality of life and to prevent long term complication of Permacath.

    A: Immediately. Call or refer within 24 hours for best chance of reopening.

    A: Dr. Ritesh Gaikwad at KIMS Hospital – call +91 96193 32942


    Book Your Appointment

    Dr. Ritesh Gaikwad – Vascular & Endovascular Surgeon