Vascular access is a way to reach the blood so it can be cleaned during dialysis

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) access: Osler has a dedicated team of surgeons to insert PD catheters. A PD access clinic at Brampton Civic provides consultation and follow up for this procedure

Hemodialysis (HD) access: Patients with progressing (stage 5) chronic kidney disease need to have a vascular access created. This is the site on the body where blood is removed and returned during hemodialysis

Ideally, this occurs several months before beginning hemodialysis treatment. Early preparation allows the access site to “mature,” so it is ready for use when hemodialysis treatment is needed

There are three types of vascular access for hemodialysis: graft, fistula or central venous catheter. The team includes vascular surgeons, interventional radiologists and vascular registered nurses who specialize in creating and maintaining these access points