AV Fistula Doppler in Pokhara — Dialysis Access Scan
An AV fistula Doppler is an ultrasound of the arm vessels used for dialysis. Before surgery it maps arteries and veins to choose the best site; afterwards it checks whether the fistula is maturing, measures blood flow and finds narrowing or clots. KDRC in Pokhara performs AV fistula Doppler for Rs. 3,000.
Also called: AVF Doppler, fistula doppler, dialysis fistula doppler, avf mapping, vein mapping for dialysis, arteriovenous fistula doppler
Price at KDRC: Rs. 3,000 · see rates
AVF DopplerKDRC · Pokhara- Duration
- An AV fistula Doppler or vessel mapping usually takes about 30 to 45…
- Reported by
- Consultant radiologists
- Location
- Amarsingh Chowk, Pokhara-10
- Book
- 061553538 · 9856077433
- An AV fistula Doppler maps arm vessels before dialysis access surgery and checks the fistula afterwards.
- It measures fistula flow, vein size and depth and finds narrowing or clots.
- A guide for maturity is the rule of 6s: about 600 ml/min, 6 mm wide, 6 mm deep.
- Schedule on a non-dialysis day if possible.
- At KDRC an AV fistula Doppler costs Rs. 3,000.
On this page (5 sections)
What is an AV fistula Doppler?
An arteriovenous (AV) fistula is a connection made by a surgeon between an artery and a vein, usually in the forearm or upper arm, so that the vein becomes large and strong enough for haemodialysis needles. Doppler ultrasound is used at two stages:
- Before surgery (vessel mapping): the diameter of the arteries and veins in both arms is measured, and the veins are checked for narrowing or old clots, so the surgeon can choose the site most likely to work.
- After surgery (maturation and surveillance): the fistula's blood flow (ml/min), vein diameter and depth are measured, and any narrowing (stenosis), clot or aneurysm is identified.
Why do doctors order an AV fistula Doppler?
- Planning a new fistula for dialysis.
- A fistula that is not maturing six weeks or more after surgery.
- Weak thrill (buzz) or pulse, poor flow on dialysis or difficult needling.
- Arm swelling, prolonged bleeding after dialysis or a suspected clot.
- A bulging segment or aneurysm over the fistula.
How much does an AV fistula Doppler cost in Pokhara?
At KDRC, an AV fistula Doppler costs Rs. 3,000. Rates are for Nepali citizens during regular service hours and may be revised. Call 061-553538 or 9856077433 (Viber) to confirm the price and preparation before your visit. See the full KDRC price list.
Understanding your results
A widely used guide for a mature fistula is the 'rule of 6s': flow of about 600 ml/min or more, a vein diameter of about 6 mm or more and a depth of about 6 mm or less under the skin. The report describes any narrowing, its location and severity, and any clot. Your nephrologist or vascular surgeon uses it to decide whether the fistula can be used, needs more time or needs a procedure to open a narrowing.
Why choose KDRC for an AV fistula Doppler in Pokhara?
- Consultant radiologists: studies are reported by our consultant radiologists, Dr. Bishworaj Bastakoti and Dr. Nawaraj Paudel, both NMC-registered radiologists since 2016 and members of the Nepal Radiologist Society. Meet them on our doctors page.
- HD ultrasound with colour Doppler and 3D/4D/5D volume imaging on the same system.
- Kidney care support: renal Doppler and abdominal ultrasound for people with kidney disease in the same centre.
- Central location: Shantipath, Amarsingh Chowk, Pokhara-10. Ultrasound services run any day of the week; call to confirm a time.
How to prepare
- No fasting is needed.
- Wear a short-sleeved or loose-sleeved top.
- If you are on dialysis, book on a non-dialysis day where possible.
- Bring your doctor's request, operation notes and earlier Doppler reports.
How long it takes
An AV fistula Doppler or vessel mapping usually takes about 30 to 45 minutes.
Price in Pokhara
| Test | Rate (NPR) |
|---|---|
| AV Fistula Doppler | Rs. 3,000 |
*Rates are for Nepali citizens during regular service hours and may be revised.
What to expect at KDRC
Bring your doctor's request, your dialysis details and any earlier Doppler reports, and wear a short-sleeved or loose-sleeved top. If you are on dialysis, schedule the scan on a non-dialysis day if possible. You sit or lie with your arm resting on a pillow. The radiologist scans the arm with gel from the wrist to the armpit, measuring the artery, the fistula and the vein, and may apply a soft tourniquet briefly when mapping veins before surgery. Pressure is kept gentle over a working fistula. The study usually takes 30 to 45 minutes. Our team tells you when to collect the report, which you take to your nephrologist or surgeon.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I get an AV fistula Doppler in Pokhara?
KDRC at Shantipath, Amarsingh Chowk, Pokhara-10 performs AV fistula Doppler and pre-operative vessel mapping on HD ultrasound with colour Doppler, reported by consultant radiologists. Call 061-553538 or 9856077433 (Viber) to confirm a time.
How much does an AV fistula Doppler cost in Pokhara?
At KDRC, an AV fistula Doppler costs Rs. 3,000. Rates are for Nepali citizens during regular service hours and may be revised. Call 061-553538 or 9856077433 (Viber) to confirm before your visit.
When should a fistula be checked after surgery?
Many surgeons check maturation at about four to six weeks. A scan is also needed sooner if the thrill or buzz disappears, the arm swells, or dialysis flow is poor.
Does the scan hurt my fistula?
No. The radiologist uses gentle pressure over the fistula, and ultrasound does not damage it. Tell staff where your fistula is and avoid blood pressure cuffs on that arm.
Is vessel mapping needed before fistula surgery?
Many surgeons request it because it shows which artery and vein are large and healthy enough, which improves the chance that the fistula will mature and work for dialysis.
What should I bring?
Your doctor's request, dialysis schedule, operation notes if available and earlier Doppler reports. Wear a loose or short-sleeved top.
Sources
This page is general health information reviewed by our radiologists. It is not a diagnosis — always follow your own doctor's advice. In an emergency, call our 24-hour ambulance or go to the nearest emergency department.
Shantipath, Amarsingh Chowk, Pokhara-10, Kaski · 061553538 / 9856077433
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