[Vascular access in patients on haemodialysis]

The number of patients on haemodialysis (HD) is increasing worldwide. An efficient HD treatment and, thus, better survival rely on stable and functional vascular access. Several are available: an arteriovenous fistula, an arteriovenous graft, and a central venous catheter. Any access has several complications, such as infection, stenosis, thrombosis, and high-output cardiac failure. This review highlights the importance of more emphasis and focus from both the patient and healthcare personnel is needed to prevent these complications and prolong the lifespan of the vascular access, since it's the patient's lifeline.