- Phone: 571-631-7488
- Email: info@pvcdoc.com
- 21475 Ridgetop Cir, Ste 350, Sterling, VA 20166
When you’re on hemodialysis, your access needs to work reliably every time. At Prime Vascular Care, we specialize in creating and maintaining AV fistulas and grafts that you can count on. Our team offers same or next-day appointments because we know waiting isn’t an option when it comes to your dialysis treatments.
Decreased Flow During Dialysis
Swelling Near Access Site
Bleeding After Treatment
Changes in Thrill
For dialysis patients, having the right vascular access makes all the difference in your treatment experience. We create two main types of access depending on your specific needs and vein condition.
AV Fistula – We surgically connect an artery directly to a vein in your arm, making the vein stronger and wider for repeated treatments. Fistulas are the longest-lasting option with the lowest risk of infection, but need weeks to months to mature before use.
AV Graft – When your veins are too small for a fistula, we place synthetic tubing under your skin to connect an artery to a vein. Grafts can be used within 2-3 weeks and work well for patients with smaller veins, though they may need more maintenance over time.
Regular maintenance keeps your access working reliably through quick, minimally invasive procedures that restore flow and prevent blockages. This means smoother dialysis sessions, fewer missed treatments and lower infection risks.
Prevents access narrowing or clotting
Reduces incomplete dialysis sessions
Lowers infection and complication risks
Protects your access for long-term use
Taking care of your fistula or graft between visits is essential for long-term success. Simple daily habits can help protect your access and ensure it continues working reliably for your dialysis treatments.
Check for a "thrill" (buzzing sensation) over your access daily
Avoid blood draws, IVs, or blood pressure checks in your access arm
Lowers infection and complication risks
Protects your access for long-term use
Every patient starts with comprehensive evaluation using ultrasound to map your blood vessels and determine the best access site for your specific needs. This detailed assessment ensures we create the most reliable access for your dialysis treatments.
Ultrasound vessel mapping included
Identify optimal access location
Customized to your vein condition
Plan for long-term reliability
Both AV fistula and graft procedures are performed as outpatient surgery under local anesthesia with sedation if needed. We make a small incision in your arm to connect the artery and vein or place the graft, and most patients go home the same day.
Same-day outpatient procedure
Local anesthesia for comfort
Minimal incision and recovery time
Clear post-procedure instructions provided
When your access needs intervention, we use gentle procedures like angioplasty or thrombectomy to restore blood flow quickly and safely, helping you avoid emergency access problems.
Angioplasty to open narrowed areas
Thrombectomy for clot removal
Prevent emergency access failures
Protect your treatment schedule
Regular check-ups with ultrasound monitoring ensure your access continues working well for dialysis. We track flow changes and address issues early to extend your access life and prevent complications.
Regular follow-up imaging tests
Early detection of potential problems
Prevent sudden blockages or clots
Support consistent, reliable dialysis
Clinical Expertise
Board-certified vascular surgeons with advanced experience in dialysis access creation and maintenance provide specialized care tailored to your unique needs and access type.
Advanced Technology
State-of-the-art ultrasound and surgical techniques enable precise planning, early problem detection and optimal outcomes for both fistula and graft procedures.
Comprehensive Care
From initial access creation to long-term maintenance and interventions, we guide you through every step of your dialysis journey with compassionate support and expert monitoring.
I was dealing with varicose veins for years, and the pain had started to affect my daily life. I came across Prime Vascular Care and I’m so glad I did. Dr. Akinrinlola and his team were incredibly thorough in explaining my treatment options. The procedure was quick and nearly painless, and I’ve noticed a huge difference in how my legs feel. I’m finally able to enjoy activities I couldn’t before. Highly recommend Prime Vascular Care to anyone needing vascular treatment in Virginia!
After being diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis, I was worried about my future health. Dr. Akinrinlola explained everything clearly and gave me confidence that I was in great hands. The team at Prime Vascular Care not only treated my condition effectively but also made me feel supported every step of the way. I’ve since made a full recovery and can’t thank them enough for their expert care.
I had been suffering from peripheral artery disease for some time, and I felt like I had no options left. Prime Vascular Care was recommended to me, and I’m so grateful I made the appointment. The treatment plan was tailored to my specific needs, and Dr. Akinrinlola’s expertise really put me at ease. My circulation has improved dramatically, and I feel so much better. I can walk without pain again, and it’s all thanks to the excellent care I received.
I was referred to Prime Vascular Care for an abdominal aortic aneurysm, and I was nervous about the procedure. Dr. Akinrinlola took the time to explain everything in detail, and his confidence really helped calm my fears. The surgery was a success, and I’m now recovering well. I can’t express how much I appreciate the professionalism and kindness of the entire team. They truly care about their patients’ well-being.
Office Hours
Monday
8:00 AM to 4:00 PM EST
Tuesday
8:00 AM to 4:00 PM EST
Wednesday
8:00 AM to 4:00 PM EST
Thursday
8:00 AM to 4:00 PM EST
Friday
8:00 AM to 4:00 PM EST
Sat & Sun
Closed
Book An Appointment
It depends on the type of access. An AV fistula usually needs 6-12 weeks to mature before it’s strong enough for dialysis needles. An AV graft can typically be used within 2-3 weeks. We’ll monitor your access with ultrasounds to make sure it’s ready before your first dialysis treatment.
You should feel a gentle buzzing or vibrating sensation (called a “thrill”) when you lightly touch your access. Check this daily – if the buzzing stops or feels different, call us right away. Also watch for any unusual swelling, redness, or pain around the access site.
Never let anyone draw blood, start an IV, or take blood pressure from your access arm. Don’t sleep on that arm or carry heavy bags with it. Avoid tight clothing or jewelry around the access area. These precautions help protect your access from damage.
Many patients do need maintenance procedures as their access ages. This might include angioplasty to open narrowed areas or clot removal if needed. These are usually quick outpatient procedures that help keep your access working well for years.
If you can’t feel the thrill or your access looks very different, contact us immediately. We offer urgent appointments for access problems because we know you can’t miss dialysis. In most cases, we can restore function with a minimally invasive procedure the same day.
At Prime Vascular Care, we prioritize your well-being with compassionate, patient-centered treatment and clinical excellence.
Treatments
