111-29 Queens Blvd, Forest Hills, NY 11375
111-29 Queens Blvd, Forest Hills, NY 11375
Fistulogram in Queens at Medex Diagnostic & Treatment Center. At Medex Diagnostic & Treatment Center in Forest Hills, Queens, our board-certified interventional radiologists provide same-day fistulograms and minimally invasive repairs. We work closely with dialysis units in Rego Park, Kew Gardens, Glendale, Jamaica, and across Queens so patients stay on schedule and out of the hospital.
Over 800,000 Americans live with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) and rely on hemodialysis to stay alive. In New York City, thousands of patients visit dialysis centers several times a week. To make dialysis work, most use a special arm connection called an arteriovenous (AV) fistula that lets blood flow to and from the machine.
Keeping that fistula open is critical. If it narrows or clots, treatments can be missed and emergency hospital visits may follow. A quick imaging test called a fistulogram finds trouble early, clears blockages, and helps avoid more surgery.
A fistulogram (sometimes called a dialysis fistulagram) is a targeted X-ray study in which contrast dye is injected directly into the fistula under fluoroscopy. The dye outlines the entire circuit—from artery to vein to central chest veins—revealing narrow segments, kinks, and clots in real time. Unlike ultrasound surveillance, a fistulogram lets the interventional radiologist treat detected problems on the spot with angioplasty or mechanical thrombectomy, often restoring full flow in a single outpatient visit.
Medex’s angiography suite on Queens Boulevard is equipped with low-dose digital subtraction technology; most procedures take less than 45 minutes and are done with light IV sedation—no hospital admission, no general anesthesia.
An AV fistula is a surgically created connection between one of the forearm or upper-arm arteries and a nearby vein. The high-pressure arterial flow enlarges and toughens the vein so that large-bore dialysis needles can be placed repeatedly without collapse. Compared with synthetic grafts or catheters, fistulas last longer, carry the lowest infection risk, and allow higher blood-flow rates—translating to more efficient toxin removal during dialysis. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Once matured, the fistula becomes the patient’s “lifeline.” Just like coronary arteries, however, fistulas can narrow (stenose) from scar tissue or clot off entirely. National Kidney Foundation guidelines emphasize careful daily inspection, keeping the site clean, avoiding tight clothing or blood-pressure cuffs on the access arm, and notifying clinicians immediately if the vibration (“thrill”) weakens. Even with perfect self-care, the constant high-flow environment can trigger silent scarring that only shows up on routine surveillance imaging. kidney.org
Patients, dialysis nurses, or technicians may notice:
Any of these red flags signals possible stenosis or clot and should prompt an urgent fistulogram referral.
Patients typically resume dialysis at their next scheduled session—often the same day.
Fistulograms are extremely safe, but any invasive procedure carries small risks: bruising, contrast allergy, vessel spasm, or, rarely, perforation. Medex mitigates these with ultrasound-guided access, the latest non-iodinated contrast options for patients with iodine sensitivity, and immediate vascular-surgery backup at nearby tertiary centers if needed. Overall complication rates remain under 1 %, and most issues are minor and treatable on site.
Queens nephrologists usually prescribe low-dose aspirin, caution against heavy lifting for 24 hours, and arrange a re-check of access pressures at your next dialysis session. Long-term, the same golden rules apply: daily thrill checks, clean skin, rotate needle sites, and attend all scheduled surveillance visits. Adherence can double the lifespan of a fistula compared with reactive care alone.
Medex radiologists send immediate post-procedure images and reports to your nephrologist via secure portal, advise on needle-site rotation, and set reminders for three- or six-month follow-up imaging depending on stenosis severity. This continuum allows local dialysis teams to focus on ultrafiltration targets while Medex guards the access.
Is the procedure painful?
Only local lidocaine is necessary; most people feel nothing more than pressure. Minimal twilight sedation keeps you relaxed, and you can speak with the team throughout.
Can I eat before my appointment?
Avoid solid food for six hours; clear liquids up to two hours are fine. Controlling stomach contents reduces the small risk of aspiration under sedation. uvahealth.com
Will my dialysis schedule change?
Usually not. Many Queens patients go straight from Medex to their afternoon dialysis seat—your access will be ready.
What if I’m allergic to contrast dye?
Medex uses low-osmolality agents and can pre-medicate with steroids/antihistamines or switch to carbon-dioxide angiography for severe allergies.
How often will I need a fistulogram?
Stable fistulas may go years without imaging; high-flow grafts or previously stenosed fistulas often require annual checks. Your nephrologist determines timing based on machine pressures and blood-work trends.
Does insurance cover fistulograms?
Yes. Medicare covers diagnostic fistulograms and therapeutic angioplasty as medically necessary. Medex pre-authorizes commercial plans so you know any co-pay upfront.
Is there radiation exposure?
Dose is low—comparable to a few plain X-rays—and far outweighed by the benefit of salvaging your access. Lead shielding protects other body parts.
Can I drive myself home?
Because of mild sedation, arrange a friend, family member, or rideshare. The Forest Hills–71 Av station is one block away if you prefer public transport the next morning.
What if the fistulogram shows nothing?
A normal study reassures your dialysis team and can rule out access as the cause of rising machine pressures, guiding further work-up.
How do I book?
Call (718) 275-8900 or use the Medex patient portal to request an “AV-Fistula Evaluation.” Same-week slots are held for Queens referrals.
Is the Fistulogram procedure in Queens painful?
Medex uses local numbing and a gentle technique. Patients typically feel only minor pressure or brief discomfort when the catheter is inserted.
How long does a Fistulogram in Queens take at Medex?
The procedure itself lasts about 30–45 minutes. Including preparation and recovery, expect to be with us for 1–2 hours at our Queens facility.
Do I need to fast before my Fistulogram in Queens?
No fasting is required. You may eat and drink normally before arriving at Medex’s Queens angiography suite.
What should I bring to my Fistulogram appointment in Queens?
Bring your dialysis access records, a list of current medications, your insurance card, and a photo ID to Medex Diagnostic and Treatment Center.
Are there any risks associated with a Fistulogram in Queens?
Risks are minimal but can include bleeding at the catheter site, allergic reaction to contrast, or temporary discomfort. Medex’s experienced interventional radiologists keep complications rare.
How soon will I know the results of my Fistulogram in Queens?
Our radiologist reviews images immediately. Your nephrologist and interventional radiologist will discuss findings with you the same day at Medex.
Can treatment be done at the same visit as my Fistulogram in Queens?
Yes. If Medex identifies a narrowing or clot, we often perform balloon angioplasty or thrombectomy during the same session to restore access function.
Is a referral required for a Fistulogram in Queens at Medex?
Yes. You’ll need a referral from your nephrologist. Our Queens scheduling team will assist with insurance verification and appointment coordination.
Does insurance cover a Fistulogram in Queens?
Most Medicare, Medicaid, and commercial plans cover fistulograms as medically necessary for dialysis patients. Medex’s billing specialists handle pre‑authorization to minimize your out‑of‑pocket costs.
How do I schedule a Fistulogram in Queens at Medex Diagnostic and Treatment Center?
Call (718) 261‑6700 or request an appointment online at MedexDTC.com. We offer streamlined scheduling at our convenient Queens location.
What imaging technology does Medex use for Fistulograms in Queens?
We use high‑resolution digital subtraction angiography (DSA) systems, ensuring clear, real‑time visualization of AV fistulas and surrounding vessels.
Can I continue dialysis immediately after my Fistulogram in Queens?
In most cases, yes. Medex coordinates with your dialysis center to resume treatments as soon as your access is stable post‑procedure.
What preparation is needed before a Fistulogram in Queens?
Aside from bringing your records, stop blood‑thinning medications only if instructed by your physician. Medex will provide you with specific pre‑procedure guidelines.
How should I care for my access site after a Fistulogram in Queens?
Keep the puncture site clean and dry for 24 hours, monitor for bruising or swelling, and follow any post‑care instructions given by our Queens interventional team.
Will I need follow‑up after my Fistulogram in Queens?
Yes. Medex schedules a follow‑up visit with our interventional radiologist to confirm long‑term access patency and discuss any additional treatments.
How experienced are Medex specialists with Fistulograms in Queens?
Our board‑certified interventional radiologists perform hundreds of dialysis access procedures annually, maintaining one of the highest success rates in Queens.
Why choose Medex Diagnostic and Treatment Center for your Fistulogram in Queens?
Medex offers same‑day scheduling, on‐site angiography suites, expert radiologists, and seamless coordination with your nephrology team—all at our centrally located Queens facility.
Medex is a multi-specialty clinic with 24-hour urgent care, primary care, and more than 30 board-certified specialists, including podiatry, cardiology, dermatology, pain management, gynecology, and physical therapy. Each department works under one roof for seamless referrals.
Yes. Every Medex doctor is board-certified in their specialty, undergoes peer review, and participates in ongoing CME (continuing medical education). Credentials are listed on our Meet the Doctors page.
Absolutely. Our Queens urgent care clinic is open for walk-in patients with minor injuries or sudden illnesses. You can also save time by reserving a same-day slot online.
Medex accepts all major commercial carriers plus Medicare, Medicaid, HIP, EmblemHealth, MetroPlus, Fidelis, and GHI. For specific coverage questions, call (718) 275-8900 or visit our Insurance page.
Use our secure online booking portal, call (718) 275-8900, or log in to the Patient Portal to reschedule.
Yes—most primary care and follow-up visits can be conducted via HIPAA-compliant video. Sign the Telemedicine Consent Form and choose “Virtual” when booking.
Yes. Our No-Fault Doctor Queens team handles car- accident injuries, and our Workers’ Comp Clinic manages job-related injuries and paperwork.
We’re at 111-29 Queens Blvd, Forest Hills, NY 11375—steps from the Forest Hills–71 Av subway station (E, F, M, R lines). A paid garage is next door and metered street parking surrounds the building.
We follow HIPAA privacy rules, store EHR data on encrypted servers, and require two-factor authentication for staff access. You may request records through our ChartRequest portal.
Adults in good health should schedule an annual physical. Patients managing chronic conditions may need follow-ups every 3–6 months; your doctor will advise a personalized schedule.
For safety, we require an active chart and a visit within the past 12 months (3 months for controlled substances). Ask your pharmacy to send an electronic refill request or message us through the Patient Portal.
Last reviewed: June 1, 2025.
Medex Diagnostic and Treatment Center
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