Renal failure continues to increase in frequency as the population ages. The kidneys are responsible for filtering out toxins from the bloodstream. With uncontrolled high blood pressure and poorly controlled diabetes the kidneys become damaged. If the damage becomes severe patients will require long term dialysis. Successful dialysis requires adequate venous access. In the acute setting this can be done using a dialysis catheter. However, these catheters can cause venous stenosis. Ideally, prior to needing dialysis, a fistula or dialysis shunt would be placed to avoid the need for a dialysis catheter. The best way to prevent the use of dialysis catheters is to follow-up with your family doctor and nephrologist regularly.