@cpintenich Welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect! I'm sorry to hear about your mother's issues for a fistula placement.

There are 2 types of fistula:
-A/V "connects" a person's artery with a vein, creating a turnaround point for the blood at time of hemodialysis. This may be placed in lower arm, or between elbow and shoulder. I have even heard a few people who have had to use their thigh area.
- A graft uses an artificial plastic type material to create a fistula.

Prior to a fistula placement, the surgeon does a vein check to see that the chosen site is appropriate, and that the vessels can support the procedure and following duties. If the veins are too deep, they might opt to do a "lift" to bring everything closer to the surface. If your mother is experiencing infections, have they tried to use another site? Is it A/V or a graft? I am not sure what you meant by abdominal flap.
Ginger