Fistula
A fistula directly connects an artery to a vein. The increased blood flow that results from this connection causes the vein to enlarge and the vein walls to strengthen. It is completely under the skin and needles will be used to access the bloodstream for dialysis.
Graft
A graft is a tube, usually made of plastic, that connects an artery to a vein. It is placed completely under the skin and needles will be used to access the bloodstream for dialysis.
Catheter
A catheter is a tube inserted into a vein in the neck or chest. There are two small tubes with caps that remain outside the body that are connected to the dialysis machine for dialysis.
