Day theatre procedure
About this service
A shunt procedure is a surgical operation available in Windhoek to create a connection between blood vessels, commonly used to provide dialysis access for patients with kidney disease. The type of shunt created depends on your individual needs and vessel anatomy, which your doctor will assess beforehand. This surgery is an important step for patients starting or continuing dialysis treatment.
At Eastgate Clinic, shunt procedures are performed in our on-site day theatre by a visiting surgeon, with your GP managing referral, coordination and follow-up in our rooms. Your doctor will explain which type of shunt is most suitable for you.
What to expect
- Assessment of your veins and overall health in our rooms before surgery
- Under local or general anaesthesia the visiting surgeon joins an artery and a vein, usually in the arm, or places a graft between them
- Some swelling and tenderness at the site is expected after the procedure
- Time is needed for the shunt to mature before it can be used for dialysis
- Follow-up appointments to check the shunt is functioning well
Who is it for?
You may be advised to have this if you are dealing with:
- Kidney disease requiring dialysis access
- A previous shunt or fistula that has stopped working well
- Referral from your nephrologist or GP for vascular access surgery
- Upcoming dialysis treatment needing surgical preparation
- A need for reliable, long-term vascular access
Frequently asked questions
How long before a dialysis shunt can be used?
A fistula made from your own vessels usually needs six to twelve weeks to mature before it can be needled. A synthetic graft is often ready sooner. Your nephrologist will confirm when it is safe to start using it.
How do I look after my shunt arm at home?
Check daily for the buzzing thrill over the shunt, keep the arm clean, and avoid tight sleeves, watches, blood-pressure cuffs or blood tests on that side. Report any loss of the thrill, redness or swelling straight away.
Do I need a referral for a shunt procedure?
Shunt surgery is planned together with your nephrologist. You can contact Eastgate Clinic directly and our doctors will coordinate the referral to the visiting surgeon and the timing with your dialysis unit.
For referring doctors
This procedure can be booked in Eastgate Clinic's on-site day theatre in Windhoek, with anaesthetist and theatre staff provided. Contact us to arrange theatre time for your patient.
Day theatre information for doctorsReady to book your shunt procedure?
Choose a date and time online and we will confirm your appointment at Eastgate Clinic in Windhoek. Medical aid and private patients welcome.