What is a HeRO graft?

The HERO (hemodialysis reliable outflow) graft is a special graft provided for patients who are dependent on dialysis, have previously had a fistula or graft that failed or for those who have a blockage or clot within their blood vessel (vascular occlusion) that prevents them from receiving a fistula or graft.

How is a HeRO graft placed?

The HeRO Graft is made up of two components that are implanted completely under your skin. During surgery, a reinforced tube (called the Venous Outflow Component) is inserted directly into a large vein in the neck.

How long does a HeRO graft last?

A The limiting factor in the life expectancy of the HeRO Graft is the life of the ePTFE graft. Literature reports ePTFE graft life expectancy at approximately 2 years1. Rotation of cannulation sites can help extend the life of the HeRO Graft.

What is a HeRO surgery?

HeRO (Hemodialysis Reliable Outflow) Graft is a fully subcutaneous device implanted by a surgeon that provides continuous blood flow directly from an artery into the central venous system. HeRO Graft is FDA classified as a vascular graft prosthesis and is cannulated like a conventional upper arm graft.

What is a HeRO dialysis graft?

The HeRO Graft is a hemodialysis access graft for patients who are failing fistulas or grafts or are catheter-dependent due to the blockage of veins leading to the heart.

How do you remove HeRO graft?

How is the HeRO Graft explant procedure performed? The Venous Outflow Component, Arterial Graft Component connector, and the Adapter do not incorporate into the surrounding tissue and may be removed using manual traction similar to a conventional hemodialysis catheter.

How soon can a HeRO graft be used?

When can I use my new HeRO Graft for hemodialysis? Grafts typically require two to four weeks for healing after the implant before they should be cannulated. Swelling should have subsided so that the graft can be felt using finger pressure. Your care team will let you know when it’s okay to begin using your new access.

How do you Declot a HeRO graft?

Percutaneous or surgical technique may be used to declot HeRO Graft. A surgical technique is recommended during the graft incorporation period to avoid risk of seroma or other complications. A 90cm thrombectomy tool is required to accommodate the entire length of the HeRO Graft.

What is the difference between graft and fistula?

a fistula, which is made by joining together an artery and vein to make a bigger high-flow blood vessel. a graft, in which a soft plastic tube is placed between an artery and a vein, creating an artificial high-flow blood vessel.

What happens when a fistula stops working?

If your access is not working well, it can decrease the amount of fluid and toxin removal your dialysis treatment achieves. This, in turn, can affect your overall health and how you feel. If you suspect there’s a problem with your fistula, notify your dialysis care team right away.

Is thrombectomy a major surgery?

The dye allows the surgeon to have a clear view of the affected vein. The catheter is then threaded to the location of the clot to break it up. This less invasive procedure is called “percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy.” Venous thrombectomy takes 2 to 3 hours, and is performed under IV sedation and local anesthesia.

Whats the difference between a graft and a fistula?

Why do fistulas get so big?

An AV fistula causes extra pressure and extra blood to flow into the vein, making it grow large and strong. The larger vein provides easy, reliable access to blood vessels.

What is the survival rate of a thrombectomy?

Results: Among 323 AIS patients treated with mechanical thrombectomy, the overall rate of successful recanalization was 86% and the overall post-procedure mortality rate was 29% by 90 days.

How long do you stay in the hospital after a thrombectomy?

After the procedure is done, you’ll need to stay in the hospital for a day or two, depending on your condition and rate of recovery. You will continue to see your doctor for follow-up visits and any additional treatment or medication recommendations.