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Interventional radiology · Karlsruhe

Dialysis shunts and access

Interventional procedures can restore or maintain the function of a dialysis access.

Procedures based on individual medical indications and interdisciplinary planning.

Procedural summary

  • Shuntangiography
  • Balloon dilatation of shunt stenoses
  • Thrombectomy and, where applicable, local lysis
  • Stent grafts for selected shunt problems
  • Treatment of central vein constrictions
  • Tunnelled dialysis catheters
  • Endovascular AV fistula creation: a specialised procedure

Preserving dialysis access

In the case of insufficient dialysis power or a closed shunt, the cause is examined by imaging. Treatment and timing are agreed with nephrology and Vascular surgery.

Specific requirements

Care is guided by the specific anatomy of the dialysis access. Creating a new endovascular fistula requires anatomically suitable vessels.

Treatment is based on your findings and personal treatment goals. We discuss benefits, risks and alternatives with you during an individual informed consent consultation.

Consultation and preparation

Bring existing doctor’s letters, image data, and a current medication plan. Change medications please only after medical consultation. We discuss benefits, risks and alternatives with you.

Further: Technical information on the subject area ↗
Editorial status: September 2026 · Sources and photo credits

Other areas of the body

ThyroidPorts and venous accessLungs and chestBreastPulmonary vesselsPaediatric interventionsAorta and major arteriesLiver and biliary tractPortal vein and spleenPancreas and retroperitoneumKidneys and urinary tractAdrenal glandsGastrointestinal tract and bleedingLymphatic systemPelvis and uterusProstate and men’s healthSpine and pain managementDialysis shunts and accessBlood vessels and limbsVeins and thrombosisBones and soft tissuesVascular malformations