Certified Clinical Hemodialysis Technician (CCHT) Exam 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The use of a graft for hemodialysis presents specific challenges, one of the most significant being its susceptibility to stenosis. Stenosis refers to the narrowing of the blood vessels within the graft, which can lead to decreased blood flow and complications in dialysis treatments. This can occur due to the body's response to the foreign material used in the graft, resulting in the formation of scar tissue and thrombosis.

In contrast to fistulas, which are created by connecting an artery directly to a vein and typically have a lower risk of stenosis due to their natural construction, grafts are more prone to complications. These complications may necessitate additional medical interventions, such as angioplasty or surgical revisions, to maintain proper blood flow for effective dialysis.

While grafts may be beneficial in certain circumstances, such as for patients with inadequate veins, their predisposition to stenosis is a crucial consideration for clinicians and patients alike when determining the best vascular access method for hemodialysis. This risk underlines the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance to address any complications that can arise with graft usage.