What is an AV graft?

An AV graft, or arteriovenous graft, is a synthetic connection that is surgically created between an artery and a vein. This graft is often used in patients requiring hemodialysis for chronic kidney disease, as it allows for efficient access to the bloodstream. The synthetic material serves to facilitate blood flow, making it easier to withdraw and return blood during dialysis treatments.

The construction of an AV graft is particularly important for patients who may have compromised veins or for whom other access sites (like AV fistulas) are not suitable or feasible. The use of synthetic material in the graft helps to ensure durability and reliability, which are essential for patients who rely on regular dialysis.

In comparison, other options do not accurately describe an AV graft. A direct connection of artery to artery does not refer to the typical configuration used for dialysis access; instead, AV grafts always link an artery to a vein. A natural vein used for access more accurately describes an arteriovenous fistula, which uses the patient's own veins rather than synthetic materials. Lastly, a tube inserted into the kidney refers to a nephrostomy or another procedure entirely unrelated to an AV graft configuration.