Arteriovenous Graft Placement in Prattville, AL

Reliable Dialysis Access When Fistulas Aren't Possible

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A Trusted Solution for Patients Who Need Hemodialysis Without a Native Fistula

When arteriovenous fistulas cannot be created due to poor vessel quality or previous access complications, arteriovenous grafts provide an excellent alternative for reliable hemodialysis access. At Advanced Vascular and Wound Care in Prattville, Alabama, our board-certified vascular surgeons specialize in AV graft placement using the latest surgical techniques and highest-quality graft materials.


Don't let vessel challenges prevent you from receiving life-sustaining dialysis treatment. Expert AV graft placement can provide the reliable access you need for effective hemodialysis.

What is an AV Graft?

An arteriovenous graft is a synthetic tube connecting an artery to a vein, creating a high-flow access site for dialysis. Unlike a native fistula, it doesn't rely on your natural vessels, making it ideal for patients with poor vascular anatomy or failed previous accesses.


When Are AV Grafts Used?


AV grafts are recommended when:


  • Veins are too small or diseased for fistula creation
  • Previous fistulas failed or didn’t mature
  • Immediate dialysis access is required
  • Complex anatomy limits fistula options


Types of Grafts and Placement


We use durable PTFE, biosynthetic, or antimicrobial grafts based on your specific needs. Common configurations include:


  • Loop grafts (usually in the upper arm)
  • Straight grafts (when anatomy allows)
  • Thigh grafts (for patients with limited upper extremity options)

Our Surgical Approach

AV graft surgery is typically an outpatient procedure performed under local anesthesia with sedation. Our team ensures optimal graft function and placement through detailed pre-op imaging and surgical planning. Most grafts are ready for use within 2–6 weeks post-op.

Benefits of AV Grafts

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Quick Access

Ready for dialysis in as little as 2–6 weeks—much faster than native fistulas.

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Great for Poor Vessels

Ideal for patients with small, damaged, or previously used veins.

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Easy to Locate

Provides a consistent site, making dialysis needle placement more reliable.

The Graft Placement Procedure

Surgical Technique


AV graft placement is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia depending on complexity. The procedure involves creating small incisions to expose the selected artery and vein, connecting the synthetic graft with precise suturing techniques, and ensuring proper blood flow and positioning.


Procedure Details: Surgery typically takes 1-2 hours depending on complexity, performed under appropriate anesthesia for patient comfort, uses careful surgical technique to optimize graft function, and includes immediate assessment of graft patency and flow.


Graft Positioning Options


Forearm Grafts: Placed between radial artery and antecubital vein when forearm anatomy allows, offering easier access for dialysis staff.


Upper Arm Grafts: Most common location, typically connecting brachial artery to axillary or brachial vein, providing excellent flow rates and accessibility.


Thigh Grafts: Reserved for patients with exhausted arm options, connecting femoral artery to femoral vein with special considerations for patient positioning during dialysis.

Why Choose Advanced Vascular & Wound Care?

Dr. Justin Parden has extensive experience placing all types of arteriovenous grafts with excellent success rates and low complication rates. Our Prattville facility features modern surgical equipment and high-quality graft materials to optimize outcomes.


We coordinate closely with nephrology teams and dialysis centers throughout Central Alabama to ensure proper timing and preparation for graft use. Our commitment to patient education includes comprehensive graft care instructions and monitoring protocols.

Graft Healing Timeline

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Initial Healing (2-3 weeks):

Graft integration with surrounding tissues, initial healing of surgical incisions, and development of secure graft-vessel connections.

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Maturation for Use (2-6 weeks):

Unlike native fistulas, grafts can typically be used for dialysis within 2-6 weeks after placement, depending on healing progress and surgical technique.

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Long-Term Function:

Proper care and monitoring help maximize graft lifespan and function for effective long-term dialysis access.

Comprehensive Post-Op Support

We provide:

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Wound care guidance

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Graft protection instructions

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Follow-up exams and ultrasound monitoring

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Education on daily care and infection prevention

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How long do AV grafts typically last?

    AV grafts typically function for 2-4 years with proper care, though some last much longer. Regular monitoring and prompt treatment of problems help maximize graft lifespan.

  • Can I use my graft immediately after surgery?

    Grafts usually need 2-6 weeks to heal before first use for dialysis. This is much shorter than the 2-3 months typically required for native fistula maturation.

  • Are grafts more likely to get infected than fistulas?

    Grafts do have a slightly higher infection risk than native fistulas because they contain synthetic material, but infection rates are still relatively low with proper care.

  • Will I be able to feel my graft?

    Yes, you'll be able to feel the graft under your skin as a firm tube, and you should feel a pulse or thrill indicating good blood flow through the graft.

  • What activities should I avoid with an AV graft?

     Avoid heavy lifting with the graft arm, contact sports that might injure the graft, and any activities that compress or trauma the graft area. Most daily activities are fine.

  • How often do grafts need to be replaced?

    Graft longevity varies, but many function well for several years. When problems develop, sometimes grafts can be repaired rather than completely replaced.

  • What are the signs of graft problems?

    Warning signs include loss of thrill or pulse, unusual pain or swelling, skin changes over the graft, difficulty with dialysis flow rates, or signs of infection.

  • Can I travel with an AV graft?

    Yes, you can travel with an AV graft. Carry information about your access and know how to contact dialysis centers at your destination if needed.

  • Is graft surgery painful?

    The procedure is performed under anesthesia, so you shouldn't feel pain during surgery. Post-operative discomfort is typically mild and well-controlled with medication.

  • What if my graft stops working?

    Contact your dialysis team or vascular surgeon immediately. Many graft problems can be repaired with procedures like angioplasty or thrombectomy if addressed promptly.

Coordination with Dialysis Care

We work closely with nephrology teams, dialysis centers, and primary care physicians to ensure optimal timing of graft placement and seamless transition to dialysis use. This includes pre-operative planning, post-operative monitoring, and long-term access surveillance.

Schedule Your AV Graft Consultation

Call (334) 659-4717 to book your consultation at Advanced Vascular & Wound Care. We're committed to providing safe, effective dialysis access when fistulas aren't an option.

Call (334) 659-4717