What does the term "HD" stand for in the context of vascular access?

In the context of vascular access, the term "HD" stands for Hemodialysis. Hemodialysis is a medical procedure used for patients with kidney failure, where a machine is used to filter waste and excess fluids from the blood, effectively performing the work of healthy kidneys. To facilitate this process, patients require reliable venous access, often achieved through the placement of a central venous catheter or an arteriovenous (AV) fistula.

Vascular access is critical for hemodialysis treatments as it allows for the efficient exchange of blood between the patient and the dialysis machine. The design and management of vascular access in hemodialysis are crucial to the success of the treatment and can impact the patient's overall health and quality of life. Thus, the correct identification of "HD" as Hemodialysis reflects an essential component of renal care in medical practice.