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Arteriovenous Fistula Health Center

An abnormal connection between an artery and a vein is called an arteriovenous fistula. In a healthy body the blood flows from the arteries to the capillaries, and into the veins. Nutrients and oxygen from the blood then travel from the capillaries to the tissues of the body. When an arteriovenous fistula develops, the blood flows directly from the an artery into a vein, bypassing the capillaries, meaning that the tissues downstream from the bypassed capillaries receive less blood supply. Though arteriovenous fistulas usually occur in the legs, they can also develop in the brain, lungs, or arms. Some people are born with an arteriovenous fistula, while others can develop one after some medical procedures, or an injury which pierces the skin, such as a gunshot or stab wound. If left untreated, arteriovenous fistula can lead to serious complication.

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