What Is an AV Shunt?
An arteriovenous (AV) shunt is an abnormal or surgically created connection that allows blood to flow directly from an artery to a vein, bypassing the normal network of small blood vessels called capillaries. Depending on the situation, an AV shunt may be intentionally created for medical treatment or may occur naturally because of an injury or congenital condition.
In healthcare, the term is most commonly used to describe vascular access created for hemodialysis.
Why an AV Shunt Matters
An AV shunt can provide reliable access for life-saving dialysis treatments. However, abnormal AV shunts may alter normal blood flow and require medical evaluation or treatment.
Common Types of AV Shunts
- Surgically created dialysis shunts
- Congenital arteriovenous malformations
- Traumatic AV shunts caused by injury
Possible Symptoms
- Visible enlarged veins
- Swelling
- Warmth over the shunt
- Changes in blood flow
- Pain or discomfort
- Signs of infection if complications develop
How Is an AV Shunt Diagnosed?
Healthcare providers evaluate AV shunts using a physical examination, Doppler ultrasound, CT angiography, MRI, or conventional angiography depending on the suspected condition.
How Is an AV Shunt Treated?
Treatment depends on the type of AV shunt. Dialysis shunts are routinely monitored, while abnormal shunts may require medications, minimally invasive procedures, or surgery if they cause complications.
How Home Care Can Help
Home care professionals monitor the access site or affected area, encourage proper skin care, educate individuals about protecting the shunt, recognize early signs of infection or reduced blood flow, and communicate concerns to the healthcare team.
Home Care Tip
If you have a dialysis AV shunt, avoid carrying heavy objects or allowing blood pressure measurements on the affected arm unless instructed otherwise by your healthcare provider.
Frequently Asked Questions About an AV Shunt
Is an AV shunt the same as an AV fistula?
An AV fistula is one type of AV shunt. The term AV shunt may also refer to other abnormal or surgically created artery-to-vein connections.
Can an AV shunt become infected?
Yes. Although proper care reduces the risk, infection and clotting are possible complications that require prompt medical attention.
Can home care help someone with an AV shunt?
Yes. Home care professionals provide monitoring, education, and support to help maintain healthy vascular access and identify complications early.
When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider
Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you notice redness, warmth, drainage, severe pain, swelling, bleeding, or changes in blood flow around your AV shunt.