Vascular access in kidney transplant recipients

Abstract

Vascular access is an important element in the overall care provided to kidney transplant recipients. The transplanted kidney is not indestructible, and chronic kidney disease after transplantation may result in needing another transplant or beginning dialysis. Commonly used vascular accesses, like peripheral and central lines, can preclude the creation of future, permanent dialysis access. Therefore, there is urgent need to preserve vessels for the future access needs for hemodialysis among kidney transplant recipients without functional vascular access for dialysis. Moreover, the proper care of functional vascular access among kidney transplant recipients is crucial. In this review article, we will address the common vascular access procedures and complications among kidney transplant recipients.

Keywords: CKD; IV access; Kidney transplant recipients; Maintenance of arteriovenous access; PICC lines; Vascular access.