Category Archives: Separate

The provider/facility protocol should be followed as with other ePTFE grafts. Needle direction and placement is less of a concern with the HeRO Graft since it is a continuous flow system delivering blood directly into the heart. 13-0061 Rev. B

HeRO Graft is cannulated the same as any ePTFE graft. Wet sticks are not required. 13-0061 Rev. B

PDF versions of our educational materials are available for download in the Document Library. You may also call Customer Service at 888.427.9654 or custsvc@cryolife to request a copy. Visit our Video Library for HeRO Graft video tutorials. 13-0061 Rev. B

The limitations are similar to other new AV accesses.  HeRO Graft patients should check with their doctor or nurse if they are not sure about beginning a new activity. Once their incisions heal, they may usually resume normal activities; however, … Continue reading →

Educational opportunities are made available to each clinic via online learning, brochures, and telephone education.  A small group of clinical educators support the entire United States, which may limit inservice opportunities. Tutorial videos on how the HeRO Graft works and … Continue reading →

Dialysis facilities may receive an implant notification fax form from the implanting surgeon’s office, or the nephrologist may have communicated the access surgery is scheduled to occur. If either of these have occurred and you have not been offered educational support, … Continue reading →

Follow your provider/facility policies with regard to graft cannulation. Additional information on recommended technique can be found in the Care and Cannulation guide located in the Document Library. 13-0061 Rev. B

As with any peripheral access, a tourniquet left on too long, or one that is applied too tightly, may constrict flow and increase clotting. The tourniquet should only be used for initiating cannulation and removed immediately when treatment begins. 13-0061 … Continue reading →

A light tourniquet will assist in palpating the graft making the HeRO Graft feel more like a conventional AV graft. The rationale for using a light tourniquet is related to the lack of a venous anastomosis with the HeRO Graft. It … Continue reading →

Follow the KDOQI guidelines for access assessment and preparation. 13-0061 Rev. B

To achieve hemostasis after puncture, use moderate finger pressure rather than mechanical fistula clamps. Since the HeRO Graft is a continuous flow system, a mechanical clamp may constrict flow and increase the risk of clotting. Additional information on recommended technique … Continue reading →

It is not necessary to start with small needles.  The provider/facility protocol should be followed as with other ePTFE grafts. 13-0061 Rev. B