INTERVENTIONAL RADIOLOGY DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS

SHUNTOGRAM/FISTULOGRAM

A shuntogram or fistulogram are procedures performed to improve blood flow in the fistula or graft placed in the blood vessels of dialysis patients.  When fistulas and grafts become clogged or clotted or have other issues such as stenosis or narrowing, the blood flow is prevented from flowing freely.  In some cases, medication may be used to break up a blood clot in the shunt or fistula.  In other cases, angioplasty or a stent may be used to open up the blood vessel. 

POST-PROCEDURE ACTIVITY:

  • A responsible adult must drive you home.  If you receive sedation, you should not drive or operate heavy machinery or do anything that requires concentration for at least 24 hours.

  • It is recommended that a responsible adult be with you until morning.

  • Avoid lifting more than 5 lbs. for 1 week and avoid exercises that use the affected extremity.  

POST-PROCEDURE SITE CARE:

  • You will have a small bandage over the site.  Keep this dry.  You may remove it in 24 hours.

  • You may shower in 24 hours, after removing the bandage.

  • Do not submerge the site underwater for 1 week (no swimming/hot tub, etc.)

  • Be sure your hands are clean when touching near the site.

  • Do not use ointments, creams or powders on the puncture site. 

DIET/MEDICATIONS:

  • You may resume your previous diet after the procedure.

  • If you receive sedation or narcotic pain medications, avoid any foods or beverages containing alcohol for at least 24 hours after the procedure.

  • Please see the Medication Reconciliation sheet for instructions on resuming your home medications.

CALL THE DOCTOR IF:   

  • Bright red blood has soaked the bandage.

  • You have severe pain not relieved by medication.  Some soreness or tenderness at the site is to be expected for several days.

  • You have persistent nausea or vomiting.

  • You have signs of infection such as: Chills, fever greater than 101F, body aches, redness, swelling or warmth at the puncture site or pus draining from the site.

You or your caregiver should call 911 for any severe symptoms such as excessive bleeding, severe dizziness, trouble breathing or loss of consciousness. 

For any of the above symptoms or for problems or concerns related to the procedure,  call 9 913-588-4846 for Monday-Friday 7-5.  After-hours and weekends, please call  913-588-5000 and ask for the Interventional Radiology Resident on-call.