Dialysis: Arteries vs. Veins - Understanding the Connection

Dialysis machines access the venous side of the circulation. Blood is withdrawn from a vein (via fistula, graft, or catheter), filtered, and returned to a vein. Arteries carry oxygenated blood away from the heart under high pressure; veins return deoxygenated blood at lower pressure, making them safer and more practical for repeated access.